Butterfly Conservation is appealing for volunteers to help save rare butterflies in Morecambe Bay.
The High Brown Fritillary is the fastest declining butterfly species in the UK, having seen numbers plummet 69% over a ten year period. The Morecambe Bay Limestones provide vital habitat and support two-thirds of their remaining population.
These large, bright orange butterflies, with a pretty chequered pattern on their wings, love warm woodland clearings where wild violets grow. If left unmanaged, trees and brambles shade out the violet plants which the butterfly caterpillars depend upon for their food. High Brown Fritillaries can be saved from extinction if their habitat is protected and maintained.
The Morecambe Bay Butterfly Task Force is working with landowners, nature conservation organisations and most importantly, volunteers to bring many woodlands in the Morecambe Bay Nature Improvement Area into perfect condition for endangered butterflies. But more help is needed.
Hilary Smith, Task Force Officer said: "You don't need any experience or special skills. Just enthusiasm, warm clothes and sensible shoes! There are activities to suit all ages and abilities. It's a great time of year to get involved - instead of joining a Gym this January, come and get fit in the fresh air and help save wildlife."
Find out more about the project in the Butterfly Task Force leaflet
See a list of task force events
Contact Hilary Smith t: 01524 298680 or 07799 469941
email : @email
