The Gatekeeper is one of the commoner species on the uncut paddock next to Roseland House, Great Yeldham.

This species has just one brood per year, with the adults in flight in July and August. In July it mostly takes nectar from Thistles, then after the first week in August it is found in the patch of Water Mint as the flowers open. It is also one of the first butterflies to appear as a dull day brightens up, basking on exposed Bellbine and other plants to warm up. It overwinters as larvae which feed in the autumn and the following spring on various fine grasses.

In 2011, after a hot, dry spring Gatekeeper colours seemed more intense.