The rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly has seen a strong resurgence in Northern Ireland this year, thanks to warm weather and long-term habitat restoration. Once widespread, the species declined sharply as farming practices changed and its only food plant, Devil’s-bit Scabious, became scarce.
Surveys of managed sites show big increases in caterpillar nests: one location rose from 24 to 53 nests, another from 24 to 139, and a third from five to 27. Conservation manager Rose Cremin said the results highlight the importance of working with farmers to manage grassland correctly, as good weather alone cannot reverse long-term declines.
The Marsh Fritillary produces just one brood a year, making it vulnerable to habitat loss. While the species has declined by 43% since the 1980s, this year’s results show that focused conservation efforts are paying off.
