[ad_1]
The agriculture industry has dismissed allegations that farmers are primarily responsible for a significant decrease in UK butterfly numbers this year, attributing the decline to unprecedented wet weather instead.

Butterfly Conservation reported a 50% drop in butterfly numbers compared to 2023 figures, marking the lowest count in the survey’s 14-year history. Species like the Common Blue, Small White, and Painted Lady were particularly impacted, with 81% showing a decline in numbers.

While Butterfly Conservation blames neonicotinoids, a pesticide used in protecting sugar beet from aphids, NFU’s Richard Bramley refuted this claim, calling it “unhelpful and misleading.” He emphasized that there is no solid scientific evidence linking neonicotinoid use to butterfly decline, citing stringent pesticide regulations in the UK.

Dave Bench of CropLife UK echoed similar sentiments, pointing to habitat loss, Climate Change, and land-use changes as major contributors to butterfly decline. He noted that the poor weather experienced this year likely played a significant role in the decrease in butterfly numbers.

Despite calls for a permanent ban on neonicotinoids, citing their negative impact on butterfly populations, the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee’s 2022 report highlighted the lack of strong evidence linking insect decline to pesticide use. It emphasized the compelling evidence for the impact of Climate Change and habitat loss on insect populations.

Butterfly Conservation’s petition to ban neonicotinoids permanently continues, with Dr. Richard Fox underscoring the urgency of protecting butterfly species for future generations. The organization stresses the importance of taking action to address the rapid declines in butterfly populations as a warning sign for the broader environmental health.

[ad_2]
SOURCE