Gatekeeper
Pyronia tithonusThe Gatekeeper, also known as the Hedge Brown, likes to linger around hedgerows and field edges. Often seen basking with their wings open, they glow a warm orange that stands out beautifully among wildflowers. Found in gardens, grasslands and scrubby habitats, they are common in England and Wales and have recently begun to spread their wings north into Scotland.
Hedging their bets amongst the ragwort
The Gatekeeper loves hanging around in hedgerows and field edges, flitting in and out to feed on the flowers growing in between. You might have heard people referring to them by their nickname ‘Hedge Brown’.
Although it lives life in the margins, this doesn’t mean it doesn’t like standing out. It feeds and basks with its wings open, which glow a beautiful warm orange in the sunshine and pop out against the yellow of its favourite Ragwort flowers.
Beyond the Ragwort, they aren’t particularly fussy when it comes to sources of nectar and will mostly use whatever’s available.
As caterpillars, they’re just as laid back, and will happily munch away on a whole variety of grasses before hibernating for the winter.
The Gatekeeper can be found in all kinds of places – wherever there are patches of tall grass close to hedges, trees or scrub, including in gardens.
They are pretty common in England and Wales, and in 2024 they were spotted for the first time in Scotland.
Vibes
Each butterfly is scored out of 100 across a set of traits, from how bold and visible it is to how far it travels or how particular it is about where it lives. These scores compare each species with the other butterflies in Britain, helping you see their differences at a glance. Here’s what makes the Gatekeeper special.
Bright colours, bold patterns, and a love of the spotlight. Some butterflies just can’t help showing off.
Fast, or throwing some seriously impressive moves, these butterflies are in a flutter.
Always on guard, ready to hide or defend - these butterflies have self-preservation down to an art.
It’s ok to be a little… well, weird. These butterflies have been certified with the freak factor.
Like Goldilocks, everything has to be just right for these perfectionists.
Hard to spot and even harder to forget, these butterflies are a true one of a kind.
Bold, curious, and ready to explore, these brave butterflies live for the thrill and aren’t afraid to travel.
Weather-resistant, battle-hardened, and built to survive, these butterflies know how to take it on the wing.
Spotted in Scotland! This hedgerow favourite is on the move and expanding their range northwards.
Test your knowledge
Why is the Gatekeeper sometimes called the “Hedge Brown”?The Gatekeeper is commonly found along hedgerows and field edges, which is how they earned the nickname “Hedge Brown.”
Does the Gatekeeper get your vote?