Butterflies at risk have a better chance of survival with human intervention. For years, scientists have warned about the rapid global decline of insect populations due to factors like climate change, habitat destruction, and pesticide use. The study examined data from 114 populations of 31 butterfly species across 10 U.S. states. Researchers discovered that these vulnerable butterflies are experiencing population declines at an average rate of 8% annually, leading to a 50% decrease over a decade. However, the findings suggest that proper habitat management may slow or even reverse these dramatic declines, offering a glimmer of hope for their survival.
| Date | September 4, 2024 |
| Source | Washington State University |
| Summary | A recent study has found that some of the most endangered butterflies are more likely to survive when humans actively manage their habitats. |
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Why Butterflies at risk have a better chance of survival with human intervention
- Some of the most endangered butterfly species show improved survival rates when their habitats are actively managed by humans, according to a recent study.
- The research of butterflies at risk have a better chance of survival with human intervention is led by Washington State University researchers Cheryl Schultz and Collin Edwards, the team analyzed data from 114 populations of 31 butterfly species across 10 U.S. states.
- The study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, the study offers hope that human-managed habitats may slow or even reverse these declines.
- The clearest finding is that butterflies thrive where people actively manage habitats. That’s exciting because it shows habitat management can have a positive impact, even in the face of climate change.
- Due to climate change, many butterflies have shifted the timing of their seasonal activities, often emerging earlier. The ecological impact of such timing shifts remains unclear, but the study found that for these species, large shifts were generally harmful.
- The study included species like the Oregon silverspot, Taylor’s checkerspot, Karner blue, and frosted elfin. It also featured Fender’s blue, a butterfly that has rebounded from near extinction in the 1990s to over 30,000 today.
- Researchers found that habitat interventions such as prescribed burns, mowing, weeding, and planting nectar or “host” plants were tailored to each area’s needs. Volunteers can assist with habitat management through planting and invasive species removal, while homeowners can contribute by creating butterfly-friendly gardens.
FAQ:
1. What is a butterfly habitat?
A butterfly habitat is an area that provides the necessary resources for butterflies to survive and reproduce. This includes nectar sources (like wildflowers), host plants for caterpillars, shelter, and suitable climate conditions.
2. What do butterflies need in their habitat?
Butterflies need:
Nectar plants: Flowers that produce nectar, their primary food source.
Host plants: Specific plants where female butterflies lay eggs and caterpillars feed.
Shelter: Areas with trees, shrubs, or grasses to protect them from predators and harsh weather.
Sunlight: Butterflies are cold-blooded and require sunlight to warm up and become active.
Water and mud: Butterflies often drink water from puddles or damp soil, a process called “puddling” to get nutrients like salts and minerals.