06.12.2011

Butterflies: decline of UK species by 72%

I was rather shocked at the news that Butterfly population in the UK was in decline by almost three quarters.  Even commons species such as the Small Skipper, Common Blue, and Small Tortoiseshell were in decline.
 

The study that looked at data over the last 10 years says that the fall is due to the loss of suitable habitat. Even though this past decade has seen more information shared out to people about the importance of having a garden and what types of flowers and plants to grow to encourage wildife, this study is a surprise.
 

The Butterfly Conservation however does highlight some successes such as the work gone into conservation to increase rare species numbers. The Large Blue butterfly is one of them and it was re-introduced in the UK in the 1980s after becoming extinct. 
Photograph of Heath Fritillary by David Purslow  D11 Hampshire Wildlife Trust

So what can we do to help butterflies flourish in our gardens?

No matter how small the garden, butterflies will visit it if they are attracted to nectar rich plants. In a well designed garden, some 18 species can visit and thrive. Here are some tips and ideas to help your garden attract these beautiful creatures.