So, you’re committed to #DoNothingForNature? Well firstly, thank you! This is such an important part of the year for every species of butterfly and moth, no matter what stage in their lifecycle they are and it’s incredibly important we let them rest and keep them safe so they can make it through the winter. Instead of heading out there and tidying up, grab a brew and read on to learn the best ways to help butterflies and moths this winter.
Hold off the Hedge Cutting
Many butterfly and moth species live inside our hedges as this is a popular place for adults to lay their eggs. So, while there you may be tempted to give your hedges a trim or use your winter holidays to finally get round to moulding it into the shape of a lepidoptera, please don’t. Leaving your hedge unpruned is a great way to keep our species safe. Instead of trimming them each year, leave them be for a year or two and trim them on rotation – these are the best alternatives to maintain your hedge without wiping out a whole generation of insects.
Step away. From. The Leaves.
A range of different caterpillar species live tucked away within the leaves, so to rake and dispose of them – or even burn (heaven forbid) would mean killing them! Elephant Hawk-moths for example, can be found tucked away under crinkly leaves… just minding their own business. If you must clear up your leaves you can pile them up somewhere else maybe in less visited or quieter areas of your garden.
For those who have flower beds in their garden, then placing leaves with species in can also supress the growth of weeds which adds nutrients to the soil.
Habitat Pile
Consider creating a habitat pile in your garden for our butterflies and moths. Habitat piles are made out of twigs, branches, leaves and any other natural debris you have about your garden. Stacking them up in concentrated areas gives insects a place to retreat into during winter time, giving them a safe space to rest.
Create a Wild Space
Gardens and wild spaces can be real havens for wildlife. Habitat loss is one of the major reasons moths and butterflies are in severe decline in the UK, so establishing a Wild Space can provide them with a place they can refuel and take refuge in. These spaces could be of any size and can range from patios with a single plant pot, balconies in a city centre, or community gardens and woodlands.
Think there’ll be no insect visitors over the winter? Think again! Click on these links to learn what butterflies and moths might be out and about this time of year.
Trim your plant stems some other time
Some insects might also be chilling out (get it?) during winter months using plant stems. Some of these can be tricky to spot – take this Orange-Tip chrysalis for example! Leaving plant stems uncut means we disturb nature that little bit less so more generations of butterflies and moths can delight us with their sightings come Spring time.
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So what might the main message here be? If in doubt, just #DoNothingForNature!