As the name suggests, this is a woodland butterfly found in glades and on the woodland edge, but can also be found along lanes and in gardens. This species can be seen on the wing from March to October and it has a variable distribution that appears to be climate dependent to some degree. After an absence of many years, the speckled wood was seen in southern parts of County Durham last year (2005). 

It has a distinctive brown and cream colouration and is often seen perching on sunlit vegetation and on leaves feeding on aphid honeydew. Durham Wildlife Trust is currently coordinating a survey on behalf of the 'Butterfly Conservation Trust'. Any records received will allow them to see how far north the speckled wood has spread.

This butterfly is a strong flyer but I found that it was a good 'poser' whilst it basked in the full sun.