The UK is facing an unprecedented decline in the butterfly population, which is causing serious concern among environmentalists and scientists. The charity Butterfly Conservation conducted a large-scale study involving volunteers, the results of which shocked experts, Mail.ru reports with reference to the Daily Mail.
The project participants observed butterflies in gardens, parks and rural areas for three weeks. On average, they recorded only 7 butterflies per 15-minute observation period, which is almost half the figure last year. Moreover, in 9 000 cases, observers did not notice a single butterfly – a record figure in the history of the program.
Experts attribute this dramatic decline to several factors. The wet spring and cool summer of 2024 negatively affected insect populations. However, the problem is much deeper: the long-term decline in butterfly numbers began in the 1970-80s due to large-scale habitat loss caused by agricultural activities and urbanization.
Dr Richard Fox of Butterfly Conservation points out that the situation is being exacerbated by ongoing landscape degradation and pesticide pollution. Scientists predict further declines in butterfly populations due to the growing climate crisis.
In light of these alarming data, the researchers are calling on the UK government to declare a “nature emergency” and take urgent action. Among the proposals is a complete ban on the use of neonicotinoid pesticides, which harm not only butterflies but also other insects, including bees.
Environmentalists remind us that butterflies are key indicator species of the environment. Their disappearance signals serious disruptions to ecosystems and requires urgent action to preserve the UK’s biodiversity.
