The vegetated embankments of Widewater Lagoon attract a good variety of butterflies, particularly during late summer when Common Fleabane and other late-flowering plants are in bloom. The south-facing slopes and sheltered position make it a natural stopping point for migrant species arriving from the Continent — Painted Ladies and Clouded Yellows in particular are often first seen on the lagoon embankment after making the Channel crossing, nectaring hungrily before moving inland.

The Common Blue favours the short grassland and low-growing legumes such as Bird's-foot Trefoil that establish on the drier parts of the shingle and embankment. All three species shown here are also recorded on the adjacent shingle beach and the wider Lancing Ring area.