Ireland's only protected butterfly has just this week been 'rediscovered' in our Woodland Nature Preserve. This pretty butterfly is Ireland's only legally protected insect species and is protected under Annex II of the European Union Habitats and Species Directive. Annex II status requires EU member states to designate specific protected sites to safeguard the butterfly's core breeding habitats. It is called "the Marsh Fritillary Butterfly" and has one plant for most of its diet - the "Devil's Bit Scabious".
One area of our woodland was identified in 2005 by Con as being very different to the rest of our little derelict farm. We have called this area - the Dry Field ever since. There was a distinctly different feeling to this part of the 16acres and now we know why.
Below is a classic selection of Marsh Fritillary Butterflys.
One area of our woodland was identified in 2005 by Con as being very different to the rest of our little derelict farm. We have called this area - the Dry Field ever since. There was a distinctly different feeling to this part of the 16acres and now we know why.
Below is a classic selection of Marsh Fritillary Butterflys.
What happened? Niamh had invited the local Biodiverstiy Officer to enjoy a walk in our woodland. He did! He quickly told us all the positive actions that we had taken since 2005 were of great benefit to Nature. We have had 2 biodiversity reports in the past funded by the Co Council and we are seeking a third update to the progress. It seems we will get more than just a report. He was impressed with all our work including Temple Crom. More on this as the action unfolds in the future!
This pretty butterfly eats the plant is hibernates with. Its not the biggest butterfly but it is an indicator of the chemical free quality of the field it is found in. We have known about this butterfly and its food source for over 10 years.
In this 'dry field' we also get wild purple orchids. We get many flutterbys dancing from plant to plant - it is beautiful to just sit and watch.
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