Common Blue

The Common Blue is the most widespread blue butterfly in Britain and Ireland and is found in a variety of grassy habitats. The brightly coloured males are conspicuous but females are more secretive. The colour of the upperwings of females varies from almost completely brown in southern England to predominantly blue in western Ireland and Scotland, but the colour is variable within local populations with some striking examples. Unlike Adonis and Chalkhill Blues, the dark veins do not extend into white fringes of wing margins.

Holly Hill Woodland Park, owned by Fareham Borough Council was formerly the gardens of Holly Hill Mansion, is spread over 70 acres of woodland, and has over 5 acres of lakes. Situated on the banks of the River Hamble, there are picturesque views across the river valley. As you explore the park the scene alters from amazing Victorian landscaped gardens with lakes, islands, waterfalls, many exotic trees and flowers to an area of hazel and alder coppice with large oak trees teeming with wildlife. 

Holly Hill Park and the banks of the River Hamble are very popular with locals, and you will regularly see walkers, photographers and twitchers out and about enjoying the scenery.