London, UK– A shocking decline in butterfly numbers has prompted conservationists to declare a “nature emergency” in the UK. The annual Big Butterfly Count, conducted by wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation, has revealed the worst results in its 14-year history.
Nature 'emergency' declared as annual butterfly survey shows record lows https://t.co/xS86LjlTL1
— ITV News (@itvnews) September 18, 2024
Between July 12 and August 4, participants recorded an average of just seven butterflies per count, a significant drop from last year’s average of 12. The total number of butterflies and day-flying moths recorded across the UK stood at 935,000, down over a third from 2023.
Dr Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, attributed the decline to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide pollution. “The intensive management of countryside and gardens, driven by an obsession with tidiness, is devastating for nature,” he said.
Species such as the Common Blue, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, and Scotch Argus showed alarming declines. Butterflies are a key indicator species, and their struggles signal broader environmental concerns.
Key Statistics
☑️Average butterflies recorded per count: 7 (down from 12 in 2023)
☑️Total butterflies and day-flying moths recorded: 935,000 (down over 33% from 2023)
☑️Species showing significant declines: Common Blue, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady, Scotch Argus
In response, Butterfly Conservation urges the government to declare a “nature emergency” and impose further restrictions on neonicotinoids and harmful pesticides that contaminate wild plants and harm butterflies.
“The long-term drivers of butterfly decline must be addressed to prevent unprecedented extinction events,” warned Dr Fox.
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