The Brenton Blue Butterfly Reserve
The Brenton Blue Butterfly Reserve was launched in 1998 but it was only proclaimed as a special nature reserve in 2003. The site is approximately 2 ha in extent The Brenton Blue butterfly is a species in the Lycaenidae family. It is endemic to South Africa.
The wingspan is 24–38 mm for males and 22–42 mm for females. Adults are on wing from October to November and from February to March. There are two generations per year
The reserve is home not only to the Brenton Blue Butterfly but also to many other butterflies. It is filled with, an amazing variety of fynbos and thicket plants which support a wide variety of birds and animals. the reserve is located on an ancient dune, the core of which has become compacted into rock, overlaid by wind-blown sand. The climate is mild with rainfall all year round. There are often misty foggy conditions in the area.
The primary food source for the Brenton Blue butterfly is a small plant in the pea family with pink flowers. The butterfly is severely threatened by runaway fires, prolonged drought, and loss of genetic diversity. The adult butterflies only fly in November and February/ March. There is a charge for a guided tour, and groups are limited to a maximum of four.
Permission to visit the reserve is required from the reserve manager.-
