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31 March 2008
The public are being asked to look out for the Peacock butterfly, which is believed to be colonising new parts of Scotland in huge numbers. Its movements are a very visible indicator of the impact of climate change
Peacock Spotters Required
Before 2000, the Peacock butterfly was only found in around less than 30% of Scotland. Since then, it has spread far further afield. The Peacock is now found in over half of the country. It has taken advantage of warmer weather and has even colonised the Highlands. Peacock butterflies have even been found hibernating in a peat stack in the Western Isles.
Now Butterfly Conservation Scotland is asking the public’s help to monitor its progress. The movements of the Peacock demonstrate the impact that the warming climate is having on wildlife.
“The Peacock is an instantly recognisable butterfly, as well as being an important environmental indicator. Tracking its movements could unlock valuable clues about the impact that climate change is having on our wildlife” said Dr Tom Prescott of Butterfly Conservation Scotland.
Climate change has been helping Peacocks hibernate successfully in much greater numbers. In the past, colder winters meant that many would not survive the winter. Milder autumns mean that nectar is more readily available, so the butterfly can store energy for hibernation. Milder winters mean less chance of freezing to death in poorly protected hibernation spots.
In 2007 Butterfly Conservation Scotland ran a postcard survey to find out more about the movements of the Orange-tip butterfly. The survey found that the butterfly was far more widespread, with a 45% increase in range compared to a similar survey ten years earlier. Populations had grown most dramatically in Grampian, Highland and Argyll.
“The response to last year’s survey was fantastic.” Said Dr Tom Prescott. “We predict the findings of the Peacock survey will be even more dramatic. The Peacock is a stronger flyer and, unlike the Orange-tip, can live almost anywhere as its caterpillars feed on nettles. It is likely that we will find that the Peacock has spread much further a field. It can be found in gardens and other flowery places mainly between March and June, and again in August and September.”
How to take part in the survey
Online - fill in the online form on our website.
Postcards with a picture of a Peacock, can be found at libraries, museums and visitors centres or directly from Butterfly Conservation Scotland or the Highland Council Countryside Rangers. People simply fill these in and post back.