Tag: Conservation

Rare butterfly finds home at military training area in Scotland

  • Rare species of blue butterfly has been sighted as a result of the restoration of habitats at military training area.
  • Conservation project at Barry Buddon Training Area in Angus, is proving successful.
  • Demonstrating MoD’s commitment to supporting nature recovery across the Defence estate.

A project to restore habitats for the rare Small Blue butterfly at Barry Buddon Training Area has seen success this summer, with the elusive species spotted flying on site.

The butterfly is a priority species on the Scottish Biodiversity List, and the sighting of the butterfly at Barry Buddon follows years of conservation efforts by Defence Infrastructure Organisation ecologists and industry partner, Landmarc, to restore habitats for the species in the area.

A pair of the Small Blue butterflies were identified on the military training area during a visit hosted by DIO’s ecology team and a representative from Species on the Edge – a conservation programme focused on reversing the decline of vulnerable coastal species in Scotland – to survey the project’s progress.

Through planting the butterfly’s sole food source, the plant Kidney Vetch (Anthyllis vulneraria), the habitat restoration efforts have created a feeding corridor for the Small Blue across the training area. With support from DIO ecologists, Landmarc teams have established Kidney Vetch along road and track verges to restore connectivity between breeding colonies of the Small Blue and boost the butterfly’s populations within Barry Buddon training area and the surrounding local region.

The sighting of the Small Blue butterfly at Barry Buddon Training Area this summer comes just in time for The Big Butterfly Count, a UK-wide initiative led by the Butterfly Conservation charity and aimed at helping to assess the health of our environment by counting the amount and type of butterflies that can be seen across the country.

Minister of State for Defence, Baroness Goldie, said: “The presence of the Small Blue butterfly at Barry Buddon Training Area is wonderful news and demonstrates our commitment to maintaining and improving biodiversity on our estates.

“The work of DIO and Landmarc, supported by the Butterfly Conservation charity, shows how we can effectively conduct training for our Armed Forces whilst taking care of our environment and delivering on the Government’s biodiversity commitments.

“I strongly support work being done to minimise our impact on the environment and optimise environmental potential whilst keeping our nation safe.”

The work has been funded by the DIO Conservation Stewardship Fund and contributes to a wider biodiversity initiative in the Angus region to restore populations of the Small Blue, which have been in decline in the UK since the 1950s.

The project team at Barry Buddon has received support from the Butterfly Conservation charity, which has helped monitor the Small Blue population on the training area, along with sharing advice and information on the conservation of the butterfly and its habitats.

Lt Col Alan Grant, DIO Commander of the UK Defence Training Estate Scotland and Northern Ireland said: “MOD land is home to some of the most unique and naturally diverse landscapes in the UK, and our Scottish estate is no exception.

“The primary use of the land is to enable our military to train safely, but we are equally committed to supporting nature recovery and balancing the conservation of vital species and habitats with military training requirements.

“It is extremely encouraging to witness first-hand the impact that the habitat restoration work for the Small Blue butterfly is having at Barry Buddon.

“The project is playing a key role in helping to enhance biodiversity, not just on our training estate, but across the wider Angus region, and I look forward to seeing its continued success.”

Comprising 930 hectares of coastal plain on the Tay Estuary between Carnoustie and Monifieth, Barry Buddon is an active military training area, and the work has been carried out in balance with military training requirements.

Because of its scenery and wildlife value, Barry Buddon is an ideal location for enjoying coastal walks and wildlife watching. However, members of the public are asked to access the land only when and where it is safe to do so due to the dangers of live military training.

The MoD supports the delivery of the government’s sustainability objectives through the Climate Change and Sustainability Strategic Approach.

The work being done across the MoD estate ensures that it is resilient and adaptable for responding to future risks and addresses the implications for defence capabilities, whilst respecting and minimising the impacts on the environment, availability of resources and changes in the climatic and geographical arena.

Spread your wings this summer with the National Trust for Scotland

Conservation charity reveals the epic three-month journey of Mar’verick, the rare white-tailed eagle which hatched at Aberdeenshire’s Mar Lodge Estate before journeying across Scotland

Adventure, fun and exploring new places is the order of the summer at the National Trust for Scotland, with Mar’verick, the rare white-tailed eagle, taking members, visitors and other supporters in Edinburgh under his wing.

Mar’verick, born at Aberdeenshire’s Mar Lodge Estate and named after Maverick, the iconic fighter pilot in the film Top Gun, has been closely monitored since birth as part of the RSPB Scotland’s East Scotland Sea Eagle introduction project, allowing the National Trust for Scotland and the RSPB to form a map documenting his travels around the country.

Until 2020 white-tailed eagles had not been bred successfully in Deeside, making it even more special to have this rare raptor species nesting at Mar Lodge Estate.

Marverick-MapDownload

The National Trust for Scotland hopes that not only will this unique tracking data help experts to monitor the growth of Scotland’s white-tailed eagle population – which is an endangered species – but also inspire people to follow the adventures of Mar’verick around Scotland this summer.

Data provided by RSPB Scotland shows the eagle has travelled from Mar Lodge Estate in Aberdeenshire up across the north of Scotland and all the way down to the isle of Arran, between January and April 2023. In just a three-month period, Mar’verick visited over 20 Trust places.

Mar’verick’s adventures and visits have inspired the conservation charity to call on the people of Edinburgh and the surrounds to follow his example and support its work to protect, share and enjoy nature, beauty and heritage this summer, by visiting some of the most unique and special places in Scotland.

In Edinburgh this summer, visitors can experience a range of activities for all ages across Newhailes, Georgian House, Gladstone’s Land, Inveresk Lodge Garden and Malleny Garden. Moving further afield, the House of the Binns near Linlithgow is hosting a Young Historians at the Binns tour, specifically created for children aged four to 11 years old, on Saturday 8 July.

The popular Doghailes and Carhailes events are back at Newhailes on 30 July and 27 August respectively, offering a fun-filled day out for canine and car lovers. The Georgian House, in the heart of the city centre, recently opened a new exhibition on Raeburn’s Edinburgh, giving new perspectives on the life and work of one of Scotland’s most prolific artists and the city and times he lived in, running throughout the summer months.

Meanwhile, visitors to Gladstone’s Land, the Royal Mile, can take part in a range of tours – from Tables Through Time, which is focused around food, through to an Intimate Lives tour, telling tales of the history of desire in Edinburgh’s old town. Throughout the summer period, visitors can cool off by enjoying an ice cream or a cold drink in the café that was inspired by the building’s rich trading history.

Stuart Maxwell, Regional Director for Edinburgh and the East at the National Trust for Scotland, said: “The summer months are upon us and it is fantastic to see so many supporters, visitors and members enjoying our places.

“It is our charity’s privilege to share Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage with everyone, and we are very grateful to all of our supporters who make this possible. By being part of the National Trust for Scotland, and visiting our places, you are helping protect, share and enjoy the outdoor spaces and incredible historic buildings where memories are made.

“Over the coming months, we have some exciting projects coming to fruition which will give our supporters even more experiences to share this summer. Mar’verick has proven himself to be the Trust’s number one adventurer, visiting over 20 places since the beginning of this year. 

“With a place for every interest, age and passion, we can’t wait to see people rise to Mar’verick’s challenge and see how many Trust places they can visit over the coming months. Through the careful conservation work the Trust is doing across Scotland to restore natural habitats and create the right environments for wildlife to flourish, the charity’s places are home to a wide range of thriving wildlife and continue to welcome new species, such as hen harriers and white-tailed eagles.”

Following the launch of its 10-year strategy, Nature, Beauty and Heritage for Everyone, in March last year, the National Trust for Scotland has focused on caring for Scotland’s special places, providing access and enjoyment and being a sustainable charity, including the restoration and reopening of House of the Binns, creating visitor facilities at Corrieshalloch National Nature Reserve, and unveiling an innovative new garden at Pitmedden which is adapted for a changing climate.

This work is possible thanks to the support of members and donors. To support the conservation charity’s work to care for Scotland’s special places, become a member at www.nts.org.uk.  Prices start from £3.20 for those aged 16 to 24, £5.50 for adults and £4.85 per month for those aged 60 and over.

For more information on the National Trust for Scotland, or the events taking place in your area, visit: www.nts.org.uk.

Free Orca talk with Frozen Planet II expert

Dive deeper into the world of the Orca whale 


Free online talk showcasing work in the Southern Ocean trails auction to support conservation

On Friday 7 July the South Georgia Heritage Trust and the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust are hosting a free, online talk about one of the world’s most iconic species – Orcas, or killer whales. 

Southern Ocean Stories: The Orca’s Tale, provides a unique opportunity for the public to hear from two of the world’s leading whale experts about their work, and the fascinating insights it gives us into the life of these amazing creatures. 

Speaking at the event will be ecologist, author and skipper Jared Towers, alongside Bay Cetology Director and marine biologist Leigh Hickmott of Open Ocean Consulting who is known as the killer whale specialist for the BBC’s Frozen Planet II series.

One of the world’s most iconic species – Orcas, or killer whales – in the Southern Ocean, are the subject of a new online talk hosted by the South Georgia Heritage Trust and UK Antarctic Heritage Trust.

The talk will look at how, by studying the movements, behaviour, abundance and ecology of killer whale populations using direct observations and remote sensing technology, we can tell the story of our changing environment. Guests will also hear about Jared and Leigh’s personal tales and experiences of working in Antarctic waters and the challenges that brings, all illustrated with their amazing photographs.

The event is being hosted by Alison Neil and Camilla Nichol, Chief Executives of the South Georgia Heritage Trust and UK Antarctic Heritage Trust respectively.

The event launches an online charity auction to raise funds towards conservation programmes that both organisations are undertaking in Antarctica and on the island of South Georgia.

The auction will include two fantastic expedition voyages to South Georgia and to Antarctica: G Adventures are donating a 22-day adventure voyage to South Georgia, the Antarctic and the Falkland Islands for two people, and Hurtigruten are donating a 12-day ‘Highlights of Antarctica’ expedition cruise for two people. 

Alison Neil, CEO of the South Georgia Heritage Trust said: “We are delighted to be working with our friends at the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust on what will be a fascinating evening learning about enigmatic Orca, and also on an online charity auction to raise funds for conservation in South Georgia and the Antarctic.

“Along with our affiliate charity Friends of South Georgia Island, SGHT is currently supporting whale research projects in the region and is also working towards a landmark artwork celebrating the return of whales to South Georgia waters.”


Camilla Nichol, CEO of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust said: “The orca is one of the emblematic creatures of the Southern Ocean, anyone who experiences seeing them cannot fail to be awed by the experience.

“It’s a huge privilege to be hosting this event when we can all learn more about these extraordinary creatures from leading experts.  I hope that this will also inspire supporters old and new to get involved in our auction.

“We are hoping to raise funds to support the vital conservation work both of our organisations conduct to protect these special places in this most incredible part of our planet.”

As well as the headline prizes of the two adventure cruises, the auction also includes a wonderful selection of experiences and exclusive lots, from unique artworks by recognised Antarctic region artists to antiques and collectables.

Examples include:

  • A week’s home stay for up to four on the Isle of Lewis
  • Several unique artworks and signed prints by well recognised artists 
  • Ephemera from Port Lockroy which has been a home for explorers, whalers, scientists, and sailors who have made vital contributions to the Antarctic 
  • Signed books including antiquarian book ‘South’ by Sir Ernest Shackleton
  • A flag flown for a summer season at Port Lockroy, Antarctica

The auction lots will be available to browse after the event with bids needing to be placed before 19 July.

‘Southern Ocean Stories: The Orca’s Tale’ is taking place at 6pm (UK time) on Friday 7 July 2023. Attendance is free, and to book your ticket visit: 

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/southern-ocean-stories-the-orcas-tale-tickets-656851690087?aff.  

The event will be available to view on YouTube if you can’t watch live, via SGHT: www.youtube.com/@southgeorgiaheritagetrust-5638 

or UKAHT: www.youtube.com/@ukantarcticheritagetrust

To find out more about SGHT, visit www.sght.org and for more information about UKAT, visit www.ukaht.org

Marine protection plans sunk

Further community and industry engagement planned

Plans to deliver increased protection for Scotland’s marine environment will be revised, with a new pathway and timetable, Net Zero Secretary Mairi McAllan has confirmed.

Addressing the Scottish Parliament, the Cabinet Secretary said proposals consulted on to implement Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) across 10% of Scotland’s seas by 2026 ‘will not be progressed’.

Instead, the Scottish Government will take more time to work with industry, communities and conservation organisations to enhance marine protection, while supporting any groups that wish to pursue community-led marine protection in their local area on a quicker timescale, such as those initiatives in Lamlash Bay on Arran and St Abbs & Eyemouth in Berwickshire.

It follows a public consultation which ran earlier in the year on the principles of HPMA policy in Scotland and attracted thousands of responses.

Ms McAllan said: “We are in the midst of a nature and climate crisis and we must be prepared to take action commensurate with the scale of that challenge.

“Failure to safeguard and improve the resilience of Scotland’s marine ecosystems to a changing climate risks the very basis on which our marine industries and coastal communities are built.

“We chose to consult as early and widely as possible on the principles of HPMAs, with no pre-determined sites. It has always been, and continues to be, this government’s plan to work cooperatively with communities to identify how and where to enhance marine protection in a way that minimises impact and maximises opportunity.

“Therefore, while we remain firmly committed to the outcome of enhanced marine protection, the proposal as consulted on will not be progressed.

“I will outline more on our next steps after the summer recess, but I hope that it is clear that I am determined to protect our oceans in a way that is fair, and to find a way forward that ensures our seas remain a source of prosperity for the nation, especially in our remote, coastal and island communities.”

In the statement to Parliament, the Cabinet Secretary also confirmed that an ongoing programme of work to implement fisheries management measures in existing MPAs where they are yet to be introduced, and to protect some of the most vulnerable Priority Marine Features outside of MPAs, will be taken forward as a priority.

A full response to the consultation and the next steps will be published after the eight-week long summer recess.

Help make the world’s most remote permanent art installation a reality

SOUTH GEORGIA AND IT’S WHALES NEED YOU NOW crowdfunder

Conservation charity the South Georgia Heritage Trust (SGHT) has launched a new crowdfunding campaign: ‘South Georgia and its whales need you now’. It is designed to make the world’s most remote permanent art installationa reality and help fund vital research into global whale conservation and environmental management.

The art installation, Commensalis: The Spirit Tables of South Georgia, is the work of Scottish sculptor Michael Visocchi who won an international competition for his design. It will stand proud at Grytviken, an abandoned yet atmospheric former whaling on the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia, a small British Overseas Territory that lies over 1,500 km southeast of the Falkland Islands. 

To make this artwork a reality, SGHT is now calling on members of the public to help. ‘South Georgia and its whales need you now’ allows anyone to play their part, by donating whatever amount they can afford via: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/south-georgia-whales/

A humpback whale in the Southern Ocean. Credit Gabriel Sizzi on Unsplash

A humpback whale in the Southern Ocean. Credit Gabriel Sizzi on Unsplash

South Georgia has been described as the ‘Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’ due to its incredible abundance of iconic wildlife.

This small island was also once the epicentre of the southern whaling industry but now is an ecosystem in recovery in large part thanks to herculean conservation efforts by many stakeholders, including SGHT, US-based affiliate charity Friends of South Georgia Island and project partners Albatros Expeditions and engineering firm WSP.

Commensalis will tell the remarkable story of this recovery, particularly focusing on South Georgia’s whales, from commemorating the loss of 175,000 individuals and the near extinction of several species by the 1960s, to their renaissance over the last decade. 

Commensalis will serve as a powerful reminder that despite the catastrophic losses once experienced on South Georgia, ecological restoration is possible, and nature can heal when given the chance. 

As well as helping fund this extraordinary artwork, exclusive rewards, including behind-the-scenes audio content from Michael Visocchi’s recent visits to South Georgia will be available to those who donate, offering a rare insight into this project, the artistic process and challenges of working on such a remote island. 

10% of all donations via this campaign will also contribute to a new whale research fund, and once Commensalis is installed visitors will be encouraged to donate directly to this fund too. 

At the heart of Commensalis are seven immense weathering steel circular tables. The Key Table depicts the numbers of whales that were processed at South Georgia, with the six Spirit Tables each representing a species of whale that were once hunted and whose numbers are now recovering thanks to decades-long conservation and environmental management.

The Spirit Tables are punctuated by c.17,000 stainless steel rivets in mesmerising patterns, with each symbolising a live whale or the spirit of a whale. Light will bounce off each one, illuminating the space and conveying a feeling of hope that is reflected in the growing numbers of whales in the waters around South Georgia.

WSP is generously supporting SGHT and Michael Visocchi by overseeing the complex task of transporting the artwork to the remote island and installing it.

The installation will be designed to withstand South Georgia’s extreme climate, ensuring that it remains in place for generations to come.

Artist Michael Visocchi was selected from over 150 international artists to take on this project in late 2020. Since then, Michael has worked closely with SGHT and WSP to finalise plans for the installation which has included two awe-inspiring visits to South Georgia to see the island for himself, and to engage with and understand the landscape, climatic conditions, and wider surroundings.

Michael Visocchi said: “South Georgia is a truly magnificent and magical place. Seeing its landscape and abundant wildlife was truly breath taking and feeling the island’s atmosphere was an experience like no other I’ve ever had.

“I feel hugely privileged to be the one creating Commensalis, which will undoubtably be both the most challenging yet most rewarding artwork of my career. I hope visitors respond to my vision and take with them a deeper understanding of this important story of global conservation”.

Alison Neil, CEO of the South Georgia Heritage Trust said: “Michael’s art installation will enrich the on-island experience of all who visit and will seamlessly tell the extraordinary story of South Georgia’s dark past to becoming a global beacon of hope as an ecosystem in recovery. 

“Commensalis will enable visitors to dive more deeply into the island’s whaling heritage, which despite being a catastrophe for the island’s wildlife does form part of South Georgia’s history. We hope that with the help of the public Commensalis will soon be ready for the world to see.” 

Humpback whales, southern elephant seals, vast colonies of king penguins and an array of seabirds all call South Georgia home, and have been showcased on major natural history documentaries including Frozen Planet, Blue Planet and Planet Earth. The island is also known for being the burial place of world-famous explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

SGHT has been working to conserve South Georgia’s natural and cultural heritage since 2005, which includes running the South Georgia Museum on behalf of the Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI). 

The small charity has delivered many successful on-island projects including the world’s largest rodent eradication project, which successfully removed invasive rodents which had almost pushed native birds to extinction.

South Georgia was declared ‘rodent free’ in 2018, thanks to the decade-long Habitat Restoration Project. SGHT now continues to work with the GSGSSI to ensure strict biosecurity procedures are enforced so that South Georgia’s10-15,000 annual visitors don’t inadvertently undo this amazing feat. 

To support Commensalis and global whale conservation, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/south-georgia-whales/ and to find out more about South Georgia, visit www.sght.org  

Government reaffirms support for the ban on hunting trophies

The Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill has been passed by the House of Commons

The UK Government made a manifesto commitment to ban imports of hunting trophies of endangered animals and yesterday supported the passage of Henry Smith MP’s Private Member’s Bill which delivers this.

The Government will continue to support the Bill in the Lords helping to protect animals listed by the internationally agreed Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

After the debate, International Biodiversity Minister Trudy Harrison said: “This is a pivotal moment in delivering one of our key manifesto commitments on international conservation and animal welfare.

“Using an internationally agreed list of species, this will play an important part in helping reverse the decline of wildlife across the world. I look forward to it becoming an Act of Parliament.”

Conservative MP for Crawley Henry Smith said: “At the last General Election we stood on a manifesto commitment to ban imports of hunting trophies of endangered animals. The House of Commons passing this legislation today marks an important moment in ensuring that this pledge to support conservation becomes a reality.

“I’m grateful to the Government for supporting my Hunting Trophies (Import Prohibition) Bill and I look forward to it now progressing through the House of Lords.

“Our country does not want to be part of a trade in the body parts of endangered species. Today the Commons sent this message loud and clear.”

The Bill will ban the import of trophies hunted from around 6,000 species including lions, elephants, rhinos, and polar bears.

It follows the government’s world-leading Ivory Act which came into force last year, introducing a near total ban on the import, export and dealing of items containing elephant ivory in the UK. We will also be setting out measures in due course on whether to extend that ban to other ivory bearing species.

The Government will also support Angela Richardson’s Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Bill in the Lords, which will provide the ability for government to ban the sale and advertising of activities abroad which involve low standards of welfare for animals.

Big Butterfly Count: Butterfly scientists call on public for help

Butterfly Conservation launches this year’s Big Butterfly Count with a warning that time is running out to help save species.

Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation are urging the whole nation to help Britain’s butterflies by taking part in the Big Butterfly Count.

Butterfly Conservation revealed in May that half of Britain’s remaining butterfly species are now on the Red List and threatened or near threatened with extinction. Last year’s Big Butterfly Count saw the lowest ever number of butterflies recorded. As butterflies and moths are an important indicator of the health of our environment, a reduction in their numbers is a cause for serious concern.

However, taking part in the Big Butterfly Count is one really positive way that everyone can help.

The information gathered is vital in helping scientists understand more about what is happening to the nation’s butterflies and therefore put in place the conservation measures needed to protect them. 

In recent years Butterfly Conservation has helped save two species from extinction in the UK and halted the decline of many others. The charity has proved that with the right information and targeted action, species can be brought back from the brink,

Dr Zoe Randle, Senior Surveys Officer at Butterfly Conservation says: “Thanks to the wonderful British public who take part in their thousands, the Big Butterfly Count is the largest natural history citizen science project involving insects in the world and provides us with a valuable snapshot of what is happening for butterflies across the whole of the UK.

“It can act as an early-warning system, letting us know how various environmental changes are impacting insects, and allows us to gather vital data from places that would otherwise be totally unrecorded.”

With the numbers of butterflies in decline, learning as much as possible about them is more important than ever. Zoe adds: “We really need people’s help this year to help us figure out where our butterflies are and what we need to do to save them. It’s not just the rare species of butterfly – the ones with restricted habitat or foodplants – that we are concerned about. Some of our previously commonly seen butterflies, like the Small Tortoiseshell, are also declining rapidly.”

The Small Tortoiseshell, which can be found all over the UK and was once a familiar species in gardens throughout the country, has declined by 79% since 1976. It’s one of the species included in the Big Butterfly Count, and Butterfly Conservation hope that data from citizen scientists will mean more can be understood about its fate.

Taking part in the Big Butterfly Count is not only good for butterflies – it’s good for humans too!

Dr Amir Khan, Butterfly Conservation Ambassador, is one of a number of famous faces supporting the Big Butterfly Count. He says: “Spending time in nature is hugely beneficial to our mental health. Just a short amount of time spent in the natural world can alleviate stress, and connecting with nature can help us feel happier and more energised.

“Watching butterflies for just fifteen minutes can be a wonderful and calming experience. It is good for you as well as benefitting butterflies by helping Butterfly Conservation gather the important data they need to understand how to better protect these special insects. It is truly a win-win situation for all of us.”

Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count is a UK-wide survey open to everyone, of any age, living in towns, cities or the countryside.

Taking part requires you to spend just 15 minutes in an outdoor space counting the amount and type of butterflies, and some day-flying moths, you see. It is easy to do and the more people who do it, the greater the benefits to our understanding of nature and how to help it. 

There were over 150,000 counts submitted to the Big Butterfly Count last year, more than ever before. Though worryingly, 2021 also saw the lowest average number of butterflies logged since the event began thirteen years ago. More counts are undertaken and submitted year on year, but it seems there are fewer butterflies and moths to be seen.

Butterfly Conservation scientists are keen to see if this is a trend that continues in 2022, and how the picture differs for butterflies across the whole of the UK. This means it’s more important than ever that the public take part and help to gather the data needed.

This year the Big Butterfly Count is sponsored by garden wildlife specialist Vivara and the DFN Foundation, a commissioning charity focused on influencing sustainable change in special needs education, supported employment, healthcare and conservation.

Sarah Hancocks, Marketing Manager for Vivara, commented: “We are so excited to be extending our partnership with Butterfly Conservation and our sponsorship of the Big Butterfly Count.

“We’re incredibly passionate about nature and know that all types of wildlife play a vital part in our ecosystem. That’s why we’re on a mission to help give parts of Britain back to nature and help restore the balance of biodiversity in back gardens across the country.

“The Big Butterfly Count is a fantastic way of doing this and furthering research into, and support of, butterflies.”

David Forbes Nixon OBE, Chairman of the DFN Foundation, said: “The DFN Foundation is delighted to once more be the official co-sponsor of this great event and support Butterfly Conservation in their vital work helping us protect butterflies from extinction.

“Last year was the biggest count to date, with over 150,000 counts submitted from people across the UK and I hope we can make it even better this year.

“As we enjoy summer, I encourage everyone around the country to take part and use this as an opportunity to connect with nature in an easy and fun way. Not only will it benefit the health and wellbeing of all who take part, no matter their age, but also help save species of butterfly that are crucial to our environment and ecosystem.”

This year’s Big Butterfly Count runs from the 15th July to the 7th August.

For more information and to take part simply visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.

Trade in ivory to be illegal from today

UK Ivory Act enforces a ‘near total’ ban on elephant ivory sales

  • UK’s Ivory Act comes into force to ensure protection for world’s elephants
  • The near total ban on elephant ivory sales is one of the toughest of its kind
  • Key manifesto commitment as part of a wider UK drive on international conservation

A near total ban on the import, export and dealing of items containing elephant ivory comes into force today (6th June), putting the UK at the forefront of global conservation efforts.

Elephants are commonly targeted for their ivory tusks and the demand for ivory is known to contribute to poaching, driving a decline in elephant populations. The ban will ensure vital protection for the world’s elephants by putting a stop to the UK trade in ivory.

The ban covers ivory items of all ages, not only those produced after a certain date, allowing only a narrowly defined set of exemptions. As a result, it will now be illegal to deal in ivory items unless they have been registered or have an exemption certificate.

The number of elephants free in the wild has declined by almost a third, with the savanna elephant population plummeting by around 30 percent – equal to 144,000 elephants – across 15 African countries between 2007 and 2014. It’s estimated around 20,000 are also still being slaughtered annually because of the global demand for ivory.

The UK’s world-leading Ivory Act is one of the toughest bans on elephant ivory sales in the world, with some of the strongest enforcement measures. Those found guilty of breaching the ban will face tough new penalties including an unlimited fine or up to five years in jail.

Animal Welfare Minister Lord Goldsmith said: “The world-leading Ivory Act coming into force represents a landmark moment in securing the survival of elephants across the globe for future generations.

“Thousands of elephants are unnecessarily and cruelly targeted for their ivory every year for financial gain. As one of the toughest bans of its kind, we are sending a clear message the commercial trade of elephant ivory is totally unacceptable.

“The UK has long led the way in conservation and our ban shows continued global leadership in doing all we can to protect the world’s most endangered species.”

Dr Mark Jones, Head of Policy at Born Free: “Born Free has long campaigned for an end to all trade in ivory, so we are pleased to finally welcome the UK’s Ivory Act.

“Its implementation must now be sufficiently robust to ensure only items that genuinely meet the exemption criteria can be traded in future, and that any transgressions are dealt with promptly and severely”.

International Fund for Animal Welfare UK director James Sawyer said: “Today is a good day for elephants. With as many as 20,000 elephants a year poached for ivory, this ban could not have come a moment too soon. IFAW believes ivory should only be valued on a live elephant and the overwhelming public support for banning the trade shows the majority of people feel the same.

“Legal ivory markets have long provided a smokescreen for illegal trade, putting endangered elephants in further jeopardy. Ivory trading in the UK has now rightly been consigned to the history books and everyone who has played a part in this important conservation victory should be proud.”

The ban coming into force will now close domestic ivory markets, representing a step forward in leading global efforts to protect the elephants after delays due unsuccessful legal challenges.

The UK Government is pushing for a global species abundance target to be agreed at this year’s Conference on Biological Diversity and has contributed £3.98 million through the Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund to projects around the world that protect elephants from poaching and illegal trade to benefit wildlife, local communities, the economy and protect global security.

The Government launched the digital ivory service earlier this year allowing those who own ivory to register or apply for an exemption certificate. People will only need to register or certify items for the purposes of dealing in exempt items containing ivory. Those who own but are not planning to sell their ivory items do not need to register or certify them.

The Government is also considering extending the Ivory Act to other ivory-bearing species and will publish the response to the consultation later this year.

Facing extinction: Half of UK’s butterfly species on latest Red List

  • 24 species of butterfly are now listed as threatened – including 8 that are Endangered – representing a substantial increase compared with the previous assessment.
  • The risk of extinction is increasing for more species than decreasing.
  • There is some hope for species that have been the focus of intense conservation work and have been brought back from the brink of extinction.

Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation is warning that time is running out to save some of Britain’s best-loved insects, with the latest Red List assessment of butterflies published today, revealing a 26% increase in the number of species threatened with extinction.

Using data gathered by volunteers through the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme and Butterflies for the New Millennium recording scheme, scientists from Butterfly Conservation have put together the new Red List, which assesses all the butterfly species that have bred regularly in Great Britain against the rigorous criteria of extinction risk set out by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The new Red List is published today in the journal Insect Conservation and Diversity.

Of the 62 species assessed, four are extinct in Britain (Black-veined White, Large Tortoiseshell, Large Copper, and Mazarine Blue) with 24 (41% of the remaining species) classed as threatened (8 Endangered, 16 Vulnerable) and a further five (9%) as Near Threatened.

Head of Science for Butterfly Conservation, Dr Richard Fox, says: “Shockingly, half of Britain’s remaining butterfly species are listed as threatened or Near Threatened on the new Red List.

“Even prior to this new assessment, British butterflies were among the most threatened in Europe, and now the number of threatened species in Britain has increased by five, an increase of more than one-quarter.

“While some species have become less threatened, and a few have even dropped off the Red List, the overall increase clearly demonstrates that the deterioration of the status of British butterflies continues apace.”

While land-use change remains the most important driver of decline, the impact of climate change on butterflies is also evident in the new Red List, with all four British butterflies with northerly distributions, adapted to cooler or damper climates, now listed as threatened (Large Heath, Scotch Argus, Northern Brown Argus) or Near Threatened (Mountain Ringlet).

Both the Large Heath and the Grayling have moved from Vulnerable to Endangered, and seven species have moved from Near Threatened to threatened, including the beautiful Swallowtail and Adonis Blue.

Two new species have been added for the first time, Scotch Argus, which is listed as Vulnerable, and Dark Green Fritillary, listed as Near Threatened.

It isn’t bad news for all butterfly species though, with some improvement in status for those that have been the focus of concentrated conservation effort, offering hope for other species.

The Large Blue, which became extinct in Great Britain in 1979 and has been the subject of an intensive, ongoing, and highly successful reintroduction programme, has moved from Critically Endangered to Near Threatened.

The High Brown Fritillary, also formerly listed as Critically Endangered, has moved to Endangered; likely to be the result of intense conservation work from Butterfly Conservation alongside other organisations.

The Duke of Burgundy and Pearl-bordered Fritillary, which have also benefitted from much targeted conservation effort, both moved from Endangered to Vulnerable.

Dr Richard Fox adds: “Where we are able to target conservation work, we have managed to bring species back from the brink, but with the extinction risk increasing for more species than are decreasing, more must be done to protect our butterflies from the effects of changing land management and climate change.

“Without action it is likely that species will be lost from Britain’s landscapes for good, but Butterfly Conservation is taking bold steps to improve key landscapes for butterflies and reduce the extinction risk of many threatened species.”

The production of the new Red List of British butterflies has been led by Butterfly Conservation with input and funding from Natural England.

The full scientific paper can be found here: https://doi.org/10.1111/icad.12582

Alan Titchmarsh calls on people to create a Pit Stop for Pollinators

TV gardener Alan Titchmarsh calls on people to create a Pit Stop for Pollinators this spring, providing butterflies and moths with the plants they need for survival.

Wildlife is in crisis – 76% of butterflies in the UK have declined since 1976 – which is why Butterfly Conservation has joined forces with TV gardener Alan Titchmarsh to encourage people to create pit stops for pollinators this spring, and help insects get from one area of habitat to the next.

Pit stops of all sizes are needed, which means everyone can get involved, no matter how large or small the space they have available is. Even a small plant pot on a doorstep or balcony could help provide butterflies and moths with an important foodplant or nectar.

Whether you live in a city or village, everyone can contribute to support our vital pollinating insects, and have butterflies and moths in your garden day and night.

Alan Titchmarsh, who is Vice-president of wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation, says: “By providing a pit stop for pollinators, you will be doing your bit for the insects that allow us to survive.

“Without them, we are gone. Plants aren’t pollinated and crops don’t grow. We need pollinators and we need to look after the planet for them.

“A really good pit stop for pollinators will have open flowers, which are needed for adult butterflies and moths to feed on, and also some plants on which butterflies and moths can lay their eggs, and for caterpillars to feed on. Something as simple as a bunch of nettles in a sunny corner is one good way to provide this.”

Sarah Hancocks, Marketing Projects Manager of Vivara, official partner of the Pit Stops for Pollinators campaign, said: “Back gardens can provide essential pit stops for insects. Whatever space you have, make it inviting to wildlife whilst enjoying doing your bit to help nature thrive on your doorstep.

“We’ve developed a range of new wildlife borders designed to help you give a corner of your green space back to wildlife, and even have one specifically to encourage butterflies. It includes an array of butterfly-friendly plants including Black-Eyed Susan, Lavender Hidcote, White Coneflower, Garden Catmint, Verbena bonariensis and White Dwarf Buddleja.”

What to plant for an insect-friendly garden:

Nasturtiums provide a foodplant for the caterpillars of both the Large and Small White butterfly.

Pot Marigold will provide nectar for adult butterflies

Buddleia is known as the ‘butterfly bush’ for a reason! The long purple or white flower heads are very attractive nectar sources for butterflies like Peacock and Small Tortoiseshell.

Verbena bonariensis is an excellent alternative if you don’t have space for a large Buddleia. It sends up tough, thin stems topped with masses of purple flowers that are a magnet for insects. It also seeds itself, so you will see it popping up in new places around your garden year after year.

Lavender ‘Hidcote’ is regarded as one of the best lavenders for the British climate. Butterflies and moths with shorter tongues can access the nectar inside its small flowers. A good plant for pots in sunny places as it prefers dry conditions.

Ox-eye Daisy is the UK’s largest-flowered native daisy with beautiful white petals and a yellow centre that is very inviting to butterflies. It will enthusiastically self-seed.

Viburnum davidii is a great shrub for a variety of situations in the garden. It can be grown in full sun or in partial shade. The white, shallow flowers come out in May and will be visited by smaller butterflies and moths, as well as short-tongued bees and hoverflies.

Field Scabious is a herbaceous perennial with blue-violet flowers that attract a large number of pollinators. Likes full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Honeysuckle is a plant that will twine through a tree but needs some support to grow up a fence. This native climber is an attractive and sweet-scented night-time source of nectar through the summer months for Privet and Elephant Hawk-moths. It is also a foodplant for Early Grey and Twenty-plume moth caterpillars.

For more of Alan’s top tips for creating a pit stop for pollinators, you can download a free guide, at www.butterfly-conservation.org.