Ant Boy reports for the Strathy on the Big Butterly Count
The big Butterfly count 2020 has just ended, and this year it was bigger than ever before.
With over 143,000 entries being submitted by nearly 111,000 members of the public, over 1.5 million butterfly sightings were recorded.
But why is this so important?
Butterflies and moths are known as indicator species, which means by monitoring them we are able to understand lots about the environment and the habitat within the area they are being monitored.
There are specific butterflies and moths that are expected to emerge at a certain time each year across the UK, and by looking for them at the same time each year we are able to detect any changes in their numbers.
Any changes which are seen help us to understand how things like climate change may be impacting the butterfly and moths' natural cycle.
By monitoring the butterfly and moth populations over time, scientists are able to identify trends, further helping them better understand how the climate may be changing.
Look out for Xander's full report and handy advice for all enthusiasts in Thursday's Strathy!
