Skyward Flutterings: A Two Decade Tale of Butterfly Population Decline in Germany
Two decades of butterfly watch: Declining butterfly populations observed - Two decades of butterfly studies reveal dwindling populations
Hey there! Let's chat about the unexpected quieting buzz in Germany's lush landscapes.
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It's a disturbing report from the experts: over half of the 82 butterfly species commonly found in Germany are on the decline. According to a study by the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ), 36 species are now less frequently spotted, and once common species like the Large Blue dropped off the list within a year. The Peacock butterfly's count halved in a mere year, too. Among those threatened also include the Chimney Sweeper, the Silver-studded Blue, and the Large White.
Conversely, only 18 species seem to adapt to our warming climate, with the Aurora butterfly reproducing successfully. However, most species appear to struggle with climate change, with experts emphasizing that butterflies' habitat conditions aren't ideal. These delicate creatures primarily thrive on meadows and pastures. A decline in their population is often a warning sign for a degrading habitat.
A Gathering in Leipzig with Global Visions
For the past 20 years, the "Day Butterfly Monitoring Germany" project of the UFZ has documented the evolution of butterfly populations across the nation. This Saturday, around 200 butterfly enthusiasts from around the world will assemble in Leipzig for a celebration commemorating this significant milestone.
The project relies heavily on dedicated volunteers. Over the years, approximately 6,000 volunteers ranging from school children to retired enthusiasts have been contributing. Each volunteer receives detailed instructions and a designated butterfly-watching route. For the past two decades, these passionate watchers have consistently counted butterflies from April until September. This collective effort has resulted in 4.4 million observed day butterflies and a whopping 55,000 kilometers covered!
- Butterfly species
- Climate Change
- Germany
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ
- Leipzig
The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Germany has reported a decline in over half of the 82 butterfly species commonly found in the country, with 36 species less frequently spotted and once common species like the Large Blue disappearing within a year.
Many of these threatened species include the Peacock butterfly, the Chimney Sweeper, the Silver-studded Blue, and the Large White. Only 18 species seem to adapt to the warming climate, with the Aurora butterfly reproducing successfully.
This Saturday, around 200 butterfly enthusiasts from around the world will gather in Leipzig for a celebration commemorating the 20th anniversary of the "Day Butterfly Monitoring Germany" project by the UFZ. The project, which relies on dedicated volunteers, has been documenting the evolution of butterfly populations across Germany for the past two decades.
