The rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly has enjoyed a strong year in Northern Ireland, thanks to warm weather and long-term habitat restoration by Butterfly Conservation and local farmers.
Once widespread across the UK and Ireland, the species declined sharply as farming practices changed and its only food plant—Devil’s-bit Scabious—became scarce. Conservation teams have worked with landowners to improve grassland management, ensuring the right conditions for the butterfly to breed.
Autumn surveys showed dramatic rises in caterpillar nests at managed sites. One location saw numbers jump from 24 to 53, while another increased from 24 to 139. These nest counts indicate healthy population growth.
Experts stress that while good weather helps, proper habitat management is essential for the species’ long-term survival. The Marsh Fritillary produces only one brood per year, making it highly vulnerable to changes in its environment.
