There is a lovely clump of ragwort on the control meadow at Pickerings Pasture, with several other clumps around the reserve.

On the other hand, it is very beneficial to insects. Many insects are struggling due to the use of insecticides on agricultural land and in gardens. Most of these sprays are not selective; killing the useful insects along with pests.  Places like Pickerings Pasture make an ideal place for ragwort to grow, as it is neither grazed nor sprayed. However the plant is removed from the summer meadows at Pickerings, as the hay may be sold on.

Ragwort is the main food plant of one of our prettiest moths, the Cinnabar. They lay their eggs on ragwort in early summer and the caterpillars are very active during the day. Their yellow and black markings are conspicuous and warn predators of their foul taste. If disturbed: the caterpillars wriggle wildly to defend themselves. Other moths also lay on ragwort, including the lime-speck pug.

Just as important, insect-wise, is that many species use ragwort as a nectaring plant. Meadow browns, gatekeepers and small tortoiseshells join the white butterflies to take the nectar. Bees, including honey bees, also take the nectar while helping to pollinate the flowers. Several species of fly also use the plant.

 Cinnabar moth                                                                     

 Gatekeeper