Butterflies

Butterflies are a sign of a healthy landscape in Burnside – from grasslands and woodlands to creeklines; and our gardens and streetscapes. Burnside has over 40 species of butterflies fluttering around! You might spot wanderers, meadow argus, and common browns drifting between sunlit clearings, feeding on nectar and sheltering in shrubs. Burnside is also home to rarer species, such as the Chequered Copper Butterfly and the Flame Sedge-skipper. Their life cycle is tightly linked to local plants - caterpillars of flame sedge-skippers rely on gahnia plants, and everlasting daisies are needed for Australian Painted Ladies - so when native vegetation thrives, butterflies do too.

You can help support butterflies at home by planting locally native species, reducing pesticide use and leaving a little leaf litter and twiggy mulch for shelter. Shrubs and small trees such as bursaria, correas and goodenias provide nectar and cover, while native grasses and daisies offer the right food for larvae and adults. Even small patches add up as stepping stones between our reserves, boosting pollination and bringing more colour and movement to Burnside’s open spaces.

Stay up to date with our Local Native Plant Giveaway on our socials and at www.burnsidebiodiversity.com.