The rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly has had a strong year in Northern Ireland, thanks to warm weather and long-term conservation work. Once widespread, the species declined sharply as farming practices changed and its only food plant, Devil’s-bit Scabious, became scarce.
Butterfly Conservation has spent years working with farmers to restore suitable grassland habitats. Recent surveys of caterpillar nests show major increases: one site rose from 24 to 53 nests, another from 24 to 139.
Conservation manager Rose Cremin said weather helps in the short term, but proper habitat management is essential for long-term survival. The butterfly produces only one brood a year, making it vulnerable to environmental changes. Despite wider declines in UK butterflies, this year’s results show that dedicated conservation efforts are paying off.
