Capsodes flavomarginatus

Range & Status

A widespread European species, but restricted to the southern part of Britain.

Regional Distribution

Discovered near Polperro many years ago, and only twice subsequently: by Stella Turk at the Dizzard in 1985 and by Chris Haes on Loggans Moor in 1995.

Habitat & Ecology

A species of damp open situations, where it feeds on Greater Bird' s-foot-trefoil Lotus pedunculatus . Relatively immobile and confined to sites with a long history of suitable conditions. Warmth, humidity and shelter are important: tied to woodland over much of its British range, but seacliffs provide suitable conditions in the south west.

Threats

Changes in management of cliff and moor, especially abandonment of grazing.

Conservation

The balance between overgrazing eliminating the foodplant and under-grazing allowing scrub development can be difficult. Maintenance of light grazing regimes is essential. The Dizzard locality lies on National Trust land.