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Butterfly population grows in Scotland
The number of small coppers has almost halved since 1979.

New report shows increase in numbers since 1970s.

The number of butterflies in Scotland has increased by 35 per cent since 1979, a new report from NatureScot has revealed.

Despite annual fluctuations in population, often owing to weather conditions, nine species have significantly increased in numbers over the past four decades.

The biggest population growth was seen in red admirals, orange-tips and peacocks. The report suggests that climate change may have played a role, with a warmer climate allowing butterflies to move northward.

Despite the overall increase, three species significantly declined in number: small copper, grayling, and small tortoiseshell.

Small copper numbers have almost halved, with climate change and habitat loss potential causes. The amount of sheep’s sorrel, which is a main source of food for its larvae, has declined since the mid-20th century.

Simon Foster, trends and indicators analyst at NatureScot, said: “Butterfly populations can vary markedly from year to year depending on factors such as the weather and availability of food, but it’s reassuring to see that the overall long-term trend is improving.

“When we look at individual species, however, there are some that are clearly struggling, such as the small copper and grayling butterflies. Habitat and food loss appear to be major factors in their declines so we’re working hard to support them.

“Gardens are becoming an increasingly important habitat for butterflies like the small copper, and wildlife-friendly gardening could counteract a more general decline in urban butterflies.

"Urban green spaces are also vital habitats and projects such as the Central Scotland Green Network are helping connect areas for pollinators, including butterflies.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

News Story 1
 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."