Grayling

National Status

In decline, fast becoming a coastal and southern heathland butterfly. Population trend 10 years to 2016 +10%; since 1976 – 58%.

West Midlands Status

Occurs largely in two areas: the Long Mynd/Stiperstones and Earl's Hill; range contracting and now extinct on the Malverns. Population trend 10 years to 2016 – decreasing.

Grayling was recorded in 18 squares in 2026

See chart of distribution

10 Year Trend Analysis

Habitat

A butterfly of poor soil and arid conditions, bare ground and rocky outcrops with fine grasses such as Sheep’s Fescue (Festuca ovina) providing the essentials for breeding.

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Bristle Bent (Agrostis curtisii), Early Hair-grass (Aira praecox), Red Fescue (Festuca rubra) and Sheep’s-fescue (Festuca ovina). Marram (Ammophila arenaria) and Tufted Hair-grass (Deschampsia cespitosa) are also used.