Science Weekly
What’s happened to all the butterflies?
Aug 15, 2024
Dr. Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, and Matthew Hayes from the Banking on Butterflies project discuss the alarming decline of butterfly populations in the UK. They reveal that 80% of monitored species have drastically decreased since the 1970s, primarily due to habitat destruction and climate change. The duo emphasizes butterflies as critical indicators of environmental health and explores innovative strategies to combat their decline, including citizen science efforts and the creation of butterfly banks to support their survival.
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Quick takeaways
- Butterfly populations in the UK have dramatically declined, with 80% of species decreasing since the 1970s due to habitat destruction and climate change.
- Conservation efforts, such as artificial habitat banks, are being tested to provide microclimates that help butterflies survive extreme weather conditions.
Deep dives
Declining Butterfly Populations
Butterfly populations in the UK are experiencing significant declines, with approximately 80% of species decreasing in abundance or distribution since the 1970s. This worrying trend is likely rooted in habitat destruction, compounded by the impacts of climate change, which is creating unprecedented conditions for these insects. For instance, the small tortoiseshell butterfly has seen a 79% reduction in numbers over the decades, highlighting the alarming decrease in familiar species. Experts emphasize that these declines are not just a loss of beloved animals, but also indicative of broader environmental issues that may affect entire ecosystems.
