Trees, hedgerows and small copses can greatly enhance butterfly numbers within agricultural landscapes, a study has revealed.
Research conducted by the University of Oxford, in collaboration with the charity Butterfly Conservation, found that ancient trees were linked to greater butterfly species richness.
The study, funded by The Woodland Trust, concluded that although butterflies are in “desperate trouble”, farmland could play a “vital role” in supporting their recovery.
Separate research by Dorset-based Butterfly Conservation earlier this year indicated that half of the UK’s butterfly species are experiencing long-term population declines.
“We know that butterflies are in desperate trouble, including our common countryside species,” Dr Ruth Feber, from Oxford University, said.
“Butterflies are important indicators of wider biodiversity, so actions that help butterflies will also help other declining wildlife.
“With 70% of the UK’s land area being farmland, our farmers and landowners play a vital role in helping these species recover, through protecting and restoring hedgerows and trees.”
While many farmers recognise the ecological benefits provided by trees and hedgerows, researchers noted concerns over the financial costs and long-term commitments associated with their maintenance.
Dr Feber added: “It’s clear that farmers recognise the importance of these crucial habitats, but they need to be supported: we need to recognise that these trees and hedgerows provide public goods which benefit wildlife and people.”
Earlier in the year, the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme reported that the populations of 31 out of 59 species have declined since monitoring began in 1976.
The scheme also found that 2024 was the fifth-poorest year for butterfly numbers nationwide, with all but eight species experiencing declines compared to the previous year – though it was noted that populations may vary annually in response to weather conditions.
Helen Chesshire, the lead advocate for farming and agroforestry at the Woodland Trust, said: “We know that trees outside woodlands have a range of benefits, from providing habitats and microhabitats, to mitigating the effects of climate change, and it’s encouraging to see from this study how beneficial they are to butterflies in particular.
“Trees and hedgerows provide habitat connectivity across what can be a hostile environment for wildlife, so we welcome the positive response from farmers, and their interest in receiving advice on managing these valuable trees. It is vital that farmers are given the support they need to do this.”
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At Natural World Fund, we are passionate about restoring habitats in the UK to halt the decline in our wildlife.
