WORK on probably the most important and unique area of nature conservation in the Forest of Dean could bring about the return of a rare and beautiful butterfly.
The pearl-bordered fritillary has not been reported at Poor's Allotment, the 109 acres of heathland at Tidenham, for a number of years. The land was given to the parish in 1815 to provide grazing and field allotments for the poor.
"We are not saying there are none there, but there have be no reports in recent years," explained English Nature's Charlotte Pagendon.
"Now we are hoping a new grazing regime will reduce bracken, gorse and birch and create the conditions which will enable the rare butterfly to return in numbers," she said. "Perhaps a Review reader will be first to spot one."
Poor's Allotment is the largest area of heathland in Gloucestershire. It is administered on behalf of the Trustees – all members of Tidenham Parish Council – by English Nature and is a site of Special Scientific Interest.
John Powell, chairman of the trustees, said it was hoped sheep would restore the heathland habitat on which scarce plant and animal communities were dependent.
While visitors were encouraged – around three miles of footpaths criss-cross the site – Mr Powell said everyone should keep to the paths.
"It is not a common and there are adders so dogs should be kept under control," he said.
"Though it was left to the parish as grazing and for field allotments of up to an acre for the poor, it has never been ploughed and has never had any form of weedkiller or chemical sprayed on it. It is quite a unique area," said Mr Powell.
•Keep your eyes open for a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 40 mm. The upper wing surface has black markings on an orange background. Underneath the hindwing there are two silver spots and, on the outer border, seven silvery 'pearl' markings. The adults are on the wing in May and June.