The Wider Countryside Butterfly Survey (WCBS) launched in 2009 represents the first UK-wide survey of butterfly abundance using a random sampling framework. The scheme is important both for assessing the changing status of widespread butterfly species and in providing an indicator of the health of the countryside. The WCBS is jointly run by Butterfly Conservation (BC), the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH). The scheme is funded by the project partners and a consortium of Government agencies led by JNCC. Funding has been secured to run the WCBS for at least another two years.
Key findings from the 2011 Survey
In 2011, 723 squares were sampled by 523 recorders who collectively walked more than 3000km of survey line, chiefly during the target survey period of July and August. In total 67,570 butterflies of 45 species were counted, with good coverage for 23 of the 26 target wider countryside species. Almost two-thirds of butterflies seen comprised five species – Meadow Brown, Small White, Green-veined White, Large White and Gatekeeper. The most widespread (and abundant) species was the Meadow Brown occurring in over 80% of squares. Migrant Red Admirals were picked up on many squares, although in general it was a poor summer for ‘common’ butterflies. Common Blue, Wall Brown, Small Tortoiseshell, and Peacock were all less widespread than in 2010, whilst two visit surveys on average yielded approximately half the number of butterflies compared with two years ago.
What’s happening next?
The WCBS will run for a fourth year in 2012, and at a welcome higher resource level for training and promotion. Through this we hope to restore the scheme to 2009 coverage levels, when nearly 800 squares were sampled. For further news and results keep an eye on the website www.ukbms.org/wcbs.htm or contact us.
Get Involved
To take part, all that is required is to conduct at least two surveys each year over the July and August period to an allocated 1km square. Most Butterfly Conservation Branches have a WCBS Champion who can allocate you a square and provide help and support to get you started. For more information or to find out who your Branch Champion is please contact Zoë Randle (Surveys Officer) via survey@butterfly-conservation.org or 01929 406006.
Thanks
We are extremely grateful to all the volunteer recorders and local co-ordinators who participate in these surveys – without your help the project would simply not be possible.
Image of Red Admiral copyright Dave Green