Action for Threatened Butterflies

This project aims to develop conservation programmes for all Priority Species listed on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. We have produced a series of Species, Regional and National Action Plans to focus and coordinate conservation of these species across the UK. The project is delivered by staff and volunteers, often in partnership with many other organisations.

Key activities include

• Advising land owners in target areas
• Recommending appropriate management
• Monitoring key populations and habitats
• Producing factsheets about managing land for threatened species

Large Blue Reintroduction

This globally threatened butterfly became extinct in the UK in 1979. Thanks to work coordinated by Butterfly Conservation and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, it has since been reintroduced successfully to more than 11 sites.

Heath Fritillary Recovery

This rare butterfly has been rescued from the brink of extinction and has now recovered to pre-1980 levels. On Exmoor, the number of colonies has more than doubled since 2001 following guidance from Butterfly Conservation and successful management by the National Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority and other partners.

Marsh Fritillary Projects

This rare butterfly has declined by 73% since 1980. Butterfly Conservation has instigated several projects focussing on the Marsh Fritillary including the Two Moors Threatened Butterfly Project, the Re-connecting the Culm Project, and The Mynydd Mawr Project.

Silver-spotted Skipper and Adonis Blue

Both species have benefited from management advice and improved grazing of their habitats. They have both expanded their range over the last decade, and as a result have been removed from the Priority Species list.

Contact

Email your comments or queries to Dr Nigel Bourn, Director of Species Conservation.

Funders

The project is part-funded by Natural England.