An update from Coordinator Czech
Every summer, the charity Butterfly Conservation organises the ‘Big Butterfly Count’, a citizen survey of the state of Britain’s butterflies. The results of this year’s survey are just in. Basically, this was an average years for butterfly numbers; and better than last year, which was awful. Nevertheless, the overall trend since the survey started 15 years ago is downward. If you want further details here is the link: Help butterflies as populations struggle despite hot summer / RHS
There needs to be concerted action to reverse the downward trend, and we wildlife gardeners have an important part to play. Below are Butterfly Conservation’s suggestions on How to make your garden a butterfly haven.
- Plant butterfly-friendly flowers, especially in warm, sheltered places. A well-thought out garden can attract over 20 species of butterfly. Include plants that flower from spring through to autumn. Start with wallflower ‘Bowles’s Mauve’, marjoram, buddleja, lavender and Verbena bonariensis.
- Don’t forget to grow caterpillar food plants. If there is nothing for caterpillars to eat, there will be no butterflies. A meadow of mixed grasses feeds a wide range of species. Wild plants such as alder and purging buckthorn, elm, willow, holly, birdsfoot trefoil, garlic mustard, lady’s smock and sorrels are all caterpillar food plants. Keep in mind that some of the most valuable plants are those you might have considered removing, including ivy, docks, thistles (welted, creeping and giant – Onopordum) and large patches of nettles.
- Leave fallen fruit under trees. Butterflies such as the red admiral and painted lady will feed on fruit juices in fallen over-ripe pears, plums and apples.
- Be aware of overwintering adult butterflies. Some species such as peacock and small tortoiseshell overwinter as adults in sheltered dry places, often being found in garages, sheds and other outbuildings.
- Go peat-free. Peat bogs are home to a unique range of wildlife, including the large heath butterfly, which is in decline across Europe.
- Leave fallen fruit under trees. Butterflies such as the red admiral and painted lady will feed on fruit juices in fallen over-ripe pears, plums and apples.
- Be aware of overwintering adult butterflies. Some species such as peacock and small tortoiseshell overwinter as adults in sheltered dry places, often being found in garages, sheds and other outbuildings.