Extinct Butterfly Rediscovered Across Southern England
A butterfly species previously classified as extinct in the UK has been observed at multiple locations across southern England, according to a conservation charity.
In recent weeks, there has been a surge in sightings of the large tortoiseshell butterfly in counties including Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Dorset, and Cornwall.
This increase in observations has prompted Butterfly Conservation to reclassify the large tortoiseshell as a resident breeding species in the UK, rather than a migratory one.
Historical Context and Decline
The large tortoiseshell was historically found throughout England and Wales but was last documented as a breeding species in the UK during the 1980s.
The butterfly’s lifecycle involves laying eggs on elm trees. Its decline has been linked to the spread of Dutch elm disease across Europe during the 20th century, which severely affected elm populations.
Although there have been occasional sightings since the species was declared extinct in the UK, these have become more frequent recently, with 20 reported in the past few days.
Expert Insight on the Species’ Return
Professor Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, commented on the resurgence:
"We don't know why the butterfly was lost from Britain, so it's difficult to know why it has come back as well, but it's likely to be the climate that is pushing those increased numbers across its European range and we are benefitting."
Notable Sightings and Enthusiast Experience
One notable sighting occurred in woodland near Ashford, Kent, where Trevor Collett, a dedicated conservationist, observed a large tortoiseshell butterfly.
Collett traveled over 90 minutes from his home in Surrey specifically to see the butterfly. After five hours of searching, he recounted:
"I was about to give up and then walked down another path and found it."
He described feeling a "degree of elation" upon spotting the butterfly and observed it for 15 minutes before it flew away.
Conservation Significance
Butterfly Conservation regards the increased sightings as positive news amid a broader context of butterfly population declines.
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