This small golden butterfly is now found throughout much of southern and central Scotland, having benefited from recent warmer years. The caterpillars need long grass, so it has become established in towns and cities where local authorities have been reducing grass cutting in parks and roadside verges.
Action Needed
1. Improve greenspaces for wildlife by allowing wildflowers and grasses to grow and set seed.
2. Create corridors and ‘stepping stones’ for wildlife to reduce fragmentation.
3. Publicise the impact of climate change on wildlife.
Threats
Climate change has allowed this butterfly to quickly spread through southern Scotland because its habitats are widespread and increasing. However, the habitats of most species are fragmented and they cannot move so easily.
MSP Nature Champion
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