Brown Argus

National Status

Occurs in England as far north as Yorkshire with range expanding northwards and eastwards. Population Trend: 10 years to 2016 -11%; since 1976 -25%.

West Midlands Status

The West Midlands is towards the western margin of its range. Well distributed in Worcestershire and Staffordshire but less common and probably under-recorded in the other two counties. Evidence of range expansion. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – increasing but with wide variation from

Brown Argus was recorded in 153 squares in 2026

See chart of distribution

10 Year Trend Analysis

Habitat

Grassy slopes on chalk or limestone with Common Rock-rose (Helianthemum nummularium). Increasingly, the butterfly has utilised various Geraniaceae spp. as foodplants and is now found in a wide range of new sites with early successional habitats including set-aside farmland, grav

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplant is Common Rock-rose (Helianthemum nummularium). Common Stork’s-bill (Erodium cicutarium) and Dove’s-foot Crane’s-bill (Geranium molle) are also used.