UK butterfly numbers hit by ‘disastrous’ spring weather

Butterflies across the UK have struggled with ‘disastrous’ spring weather
AP
Leah Sinclair16 July 2021

Butterflies across the UK have struggled with ‘disastrous’ spring weather that could be a consequence of climate change, conservationists have said.

Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation said its current records show many species of butterflies have had a poor spring or a delay in their emergence following this year’s unseasonably cold and wet weather.

There have been unusually low numbers of speckled wood butterflies, while small tortoiseshells, commas, green-veined whites, large whites and red admirals are also down on their 10-year average, the charity said.

Though April was the sunniest on record, it was also cold, with a record number of frosts, while May was the wettest for 50 years.

Conservationists warn that the UK is experiencing an increasing number of extreme weather events as a likely consequence of climate change, and they want to learn more about the effects on native butterflies to understand the long-term impacts on nature or biodiversity.

Wildlife broadcaster Packham, who is vice-president of Butterfly Conservation, said: "Biodiversity and climate crisis is an urgent issue and it can be overwhelming to think about what we can do as individuals to really make a difference.

"Because butterflies and moths make excellent indicators of the impacts of climate change and other human environmental factors, collecting data on their numbers is really important.

"So, something as simple as recording a butterfly spotted in your garden, at your local park or on your window box can play a part in vital research into a global problem. It’s a really valuable contribution everyone can make."

Dr Zoe Randle, senior surveys officer at Butterfly Conservation, said: "Climate change and other human-led impacts are causing some species to be found in new areas, while others are becoming harder to find in the UK at all," she said.

The charity will be holding the Big Butterfly Count which helps show changes in the populations of butterflies and moths.

To take part, people just need to spend 15 minutes in an outdoor space, counting the number and type of butterflies, and some day-flying moths, they see.

Dr Randle added: "We really need the public’s help to understand what is happening to our butterfly and moth populations. It’s a small but crucial thing everyone can do.

"This information will not only help us to protect these species, but also to inform what effect the changing climate is having on our biodiversity."

This year’s Big Butterfly Count runs nationwide from July 16 to August 8.

Additional reporting by PA Media

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