Join the Tamar Valley AONB team, in conjunction with Butterfly Conservation, for a Bee & Butterfly Day at Greenscombe Wood, Luckett.
The event will involve walking around the site looking for butterflies and bees, with experts who will show you how to identify the different species, in particular Heath Fritillary butterflies and the Long-Horned Mining Bee. Discover the importance of these creatures and how to maintain the ideal habitat to attract bees & butterflies to the Valley.
By the end of the session, you will understand more about the Heath Fritillary butterfly and other species, as well as being able to support the AONB team in monitoring surveys. This is vital to help understand the state of the AONB and what we can do to conserve and enhance the landscape further.
This FREE event, which has been made possible through the Helping Hands for Heritage project, takes place on Saturday 13th June, starting at 10:30am and ending at 3pm, including a picnic packed-lunch in the meadow.
Caroline Kelly from Butterfly Conservation explains why butterflies matter: “Butterflies and moths have been recognised by the Government as indicators of a healthy environment and healthy ecosystems. Their fragility makes them quick to react to change so their struggle to survive is a serious warning about our environment.
“Sadly four butterflies and more than 60 moths became extinct during the last century. Three-quarters of British butterflies are in decline and many moths are also facing an uncertain future. Events that teach people the skills needed to identify and record butterflies in their area are so important. Ongoing monitoring helps us to direct our conservation effort where it is most needed.”
Friends of the Earth, who are currently running a month-long Bee Count, state; “Our bees are in crisis; they've lost much of their natural habitat in the past 60 years. The Government have recognised this, and is putting a Bee Action Plan into place to tackle bee decline.”
By improving the habitat for the Heath Fritillary, the Long-Horned Mining Bee will also benefit as they favour similar conditions.
To book your free place, or for further details, please contact the Tamar Valley AONB team – tel: 01822 835030 or email: [email protected]