Nature enthusiasts across Sussex are being asked to help reverse butterfly declines by improving and creating new habitat for a number of species across the county.
Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation (BC) needs more volunteers to carry out conservation work over the next few months, which it’s hoped will boost local butterfly populations.
BC’s Sussex Branch has teamed up with film-maker Justin Ingham to highlight the situation facing butterflies in the area and to provide an insight into the work carried out by volunteers.
The film features BC’s Park Corner Heath and Rowland Wood Reserves in East Sussex.
Work has already been carried out at these two reserves to secure the future of the rare Pearl-bordered Fritillary butterfly and the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, but volunteers are needed at further events taking place across the county throughout March, April and May.
Chair of BC Sussex, Nigel Symington, said: “You just don't see large numbers of butterflies anymore and I think that's terribly sad. Our volunteers have been doing an amazing job to help our butterflies, but further conservation work is needed all over the county. By working together we can slow down and potentially reverse butterfly declines, so please join us at an event this spring.”
Saving The Butterflies of Sussex from justin Ingham on Vimeo.
Film-maker, Justin Ingham, said: “It was a huge privilege to work with the dedicated volunteers to make this film. We were all amazed by the fiercely passionate conservationists who do so much for these fragile creatures. Whether they were young or old, everyone had the same vision and commitment to make a difference – we have learned a lot from all these people.”
People interested in volunteering should contact BC’s Sussex Branch or take a look at volunteer events taking place this year.