The pearl-bordered fritillary is one species with a home in the forest

It coincides with Save Our Butterflies week aimed at halting decades of decline in important species.

The 100-acre site in the heart of the forest has been described as "the best butterfly site in Scotland".

Among the rare varieties found in Mabie are the pearl-bordered fritillary, dingy skipper and the forester moth.

Forestry Commission Scotland and Butterfly Conservation have teamed up to help create the right habitats in the forest and boost butterfly numbers.

This site shows that with sensitive management, we can make our woodlands suitable for a wide range of Scotland's wildlife Paul Kirkland Butterfly Conservation Scotland

The reserve will also be a safe haven for other species such as drangonflies, damselflies, owls, bats, woodpeckers and the "churring" nightjar, a bird which is rarely seen but often identified by its unusual call.

Robin Fuller of FCS said the area was a "hidden oasis for many really interesting and rare creatures".

"Butterflies are just one of the special species that the new nature reserve aims to protect, yet we believe that it's possible that over 500 different species of moth live in the forest," he said.

"By creating the perfect environment, we can reduce the decline of many important species and give a welcome retreat to many other fascinating animals."

A wide range of work has been carried out to ensure the habitat is right for butterflies to flourish.

"This site shows that with sensitive management, we can make our woodlands suitable for a wide range of Scotland's wildlife," said Paul Kirkland, director of Butterfly Conservation Scotland.

"For example, pearl-bordered fritillaries are in deep trouble in England and Wales, but this well-managed reserve in Scotland proves that we can conserve this species effectively."