Rare butterfly rediscovered in Ellesmere

A rare butterfly was rediscovered in Ellesmere on Saturday 9 June 2012 by local residents participating in Shropshire Council’s “Your Natural Heritage” project. 

Wildlife enthusiasts were attending a free butterfly course, run in conjunction with Butterfly Conservation, when they unexpectedly stumbled across a Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene). 

The discovery was made at Ellesmere Moors, where habitat restoration work has recently been undertaken through the LEADER-funded community project.  This beautiful species had not been seen around The Mere for 20 years and it was thought to have been lost from the area. 

Small Pearl-bordered Fritillaries are scarce in the UK and their range is declining.  There are few known populations in central England, so this discovery is important.  A partnership of organisations will now explore opportunities to create more habitat for the butterfly in the surrounding area, which falls within the Mere and Mosses of the Marches Nature Improvement Area. 

Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for rural affairs, and carbon reduction and sustainability, said: 

“This is very exciting news; discovering a rare species of butterfly like the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary is really encouraging for our local wildlife habits.  Findings like these make us realise how precious and valuable our natural environments are.  This is a real testament to those who have worked so hard in restoring this site, who must be so proud of this discovery.” 

Stephen Lewis of Butterfly Conservation said: 

“This is a species in national decline, so it is a very significant find, and a good example of Butterfly Conservation and Shropshire Council working in partnership for the benefit of local wildlife.” 

Ann Hartley, local Shropshire Councillor for Ellesmere Urban, said:

“I am delighted to hear about this exciting discovery.  It is encouraging to learn that the Cremorne Gardens, The Mere and surrounding area has maintained the natural environment whilst still proving to be such a popular visitor attraction.  We are all extremely proud of our town, and all it has to offer.”

The “Your Natural Heritage”project is helping community groups to survey nature in their local area.  Groups are provided with free training, equipment and support, enabling them to record and protect Shropshire’s fantastic natural environment.  With the help of expert organisations, such as Butterfly Conservation, participants are learning how to identify and conserve wildlife. 

This is the latest in a number of valuable discoveries being made by local groups.  Anyone interested in taking part in the project should email natural.environment@shropshire.gov.uk or call 01743 252543.