Butterfly Conservation Project

 

Background/context

It is fairly common knowledge that the forests and woodlands of Wales are home to many species of beautiful butterflies and moths. These captivating creatures are a great source of interest and enjoyment for many woodland visitors and FC Wales wanted to know more about where the important populations could be found and what kind of conditions would provide better habitats.

Description

"We approached Butterfly Conservation to undertake a survey for us across 56 forests within the Assembly Woodland Estate, to find out where the butterflies and moths were located, what kinds of change in population were occurring and what we could do to improve their habitats. Although we were able to provide funding for this survey, it was the enthusiasm and commitment of over 50 Butterfly Conservation volunteers, staff and contractors who worked hard on this intensive survey. After four years, we were proud to jointly publish the Butterfly Conservation Report.

The good news is that over 33 different species were recorded in the forests with some important populations discovered. But to improve the situation, we are working with Butterfly Conservation to introduce new techniques for encouraging butterfly and moth food plants to spread and for removing scrub underneath trees to improve and increase breeding habitats. This invaluable report is helping to inform and develop our long term plans to provide, maintain and expand suitable breeding habitat, while reversing the declines in key species of butterflies and moths in Wales.

Future projects

"Putting into practice the recommendations of the report and keeping an eye on the results are the next steps for our working partnership, helping to make the best use of our woodland resources and encourage more people to come and discover the wildlife in their forests."