A butterfly once thought to be extinct in the UK has been sighted in multiple locations across southern England. The large tortoiseshell butterfly has made a return, as confirmed by a conservation charity.
Locations of Sightings
Recently, there have been multiple sightings of the large tortoiseshell butterfly in the following areas:
- Kent
- Sussex
- Hampshire
- Isle of Wight
- Dorset
- Cornwall
Conservation Status
Butterfly Conservation has announced that the large tortoiseshell is now considered a resident breeding species in the UK. This marks a significant change, as it had previously been classified as a migratory butterfly.
Historical Context
The large tortoiseshell butterfly was once common across England and Wales. However, its last recorded breeding in the UK occurred in the 1980s.
The recent resurgence of this butterfly species brings hope for its continued presence in Britain. Conservation efforts may have played a crucial role in its return.
