Save Britain's Gatekeeper Butterflies: Six Simple Steps for Conservation
Conservation efforts often demand significant labor, but helping the gatekeeper butterfly is a delightful exception. These small orange and brown insects, described by naturalist Matthew Oates as "charming meditations of soft oranges and browns," are commonly spotted in suburban and urban areas, especially near garden gates and shrub bases. Unlike many territorial butterflies, gatekeepers are known for their leisurely, polite behavior, with males particularly noted for their gentlemanly conduct. However, despite their widespread presence, these butterflies require urgent assistance to thrive.
Why Gatekeeper Butterflies Need Our Help
While not the most endangered species in the UK, gatekeeper populations have declined by 38% since 1976, according to Dr. Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation. This drop is puzzling, as climate change is unlikely to be the primary cause in Britain, given their tolerance to varied temperatures. Instead, factors like changing plant communities due to increased soil nitrogen and pesticide use are suspected contributors. In contrast, the small tortoiseshell butterfly has seen an alarming 82% decline over the same period, highlighting a broader crisis for garden visitors.
Six Ways to Support Gatekeeper Butterflies
1. Don't Cut All Your Grass
Long grass is crucial for butterfly survival, providing essential food for caterpillars. Dr. Fox emphasizes that while flowers attract adult butterflies, caterpillars are more selective, with gatekeepers exclusively consuming grasses. Matthew Oates suggests leaving pockets of mixed grasses along scrub edges and hedges, advising against mowing under shrubs or using a high mower setting to preserve longer grass. Initiatives like No Mow May are beneficial, but Fox warns against mowing in early June when caterpillars and eggs are abundant. Studies show that any long grass in gardens increases butterfly diversity and numbers throughout the year.
2. Provide a Fuelling Station
Even small spaces like window boxes or balconies can serve as "motorway service stations" for butterflies, offering nectar-rich flowers. Gatekeepers particularly adore flowering herbs such as oregano and thyme. Planting strategically to ensure blooms from spring to autumn, using resources like Butterfly Conservation's seasonal plant lists, can create a reliable food source in warm, sheltered spots.
3. Advocate for Public Spaces
Promoting long grass in public areas like parks, school grounds, and road verges is vital. Fox encourages lobbying local authorities and educating others about the importance of these habitats for reversing butterfly declines. Additionally, leaving nettle patches can aid the endangered small tortoiseshell, whose caterpillars rely solely on nettles.
4. Participate in the Big Butterfly Count
From July 17 to August 9, join the Big Butterfly Count by spending 15 minutes observing and recording butterflies. This simple activity, accessible via a free app, helps conservationists track population shifts and monitor species health across the UK.
5. Monitor Butterflies Year-Round
For ongoing data collection, use the iRecord Butterflies app to log sightings of butterflies, eggs, caterpillars, or pupas throughout the year. The app offers identification guidance and insights based on local data, supporting long-term conservation efforts.
6. Enjoy and Appreciate Them
Fostering appreciation for garden butterflies can inspire advocacy and support for their survival. Oates notes that this summer might be exceptional for butterflies, following last year's warm, dry conditions. Taking time to enjoy these moments can strengthen community engagement in conservation.
By implementing these steps, individuals can play a key role in safeguarding Britain's gatekeeper butterflies and contributing to broader wildlife preservation efforts.
