The Sussex race of Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene) had been in decline for several years before it finally disappeared from its one remaining site in East Sussex in 2013. In fact, to my knowledge, it was the only remaining colony in south-east England. Habitat degradation is always high on the list of causes in such cases but as a butterfly of damp woodland rides, it has probably also become a victim of a drying climate in south-east England.
Two years ago, selene was reintroduced to its former haunt and it is wonderful to see this lovely little fritillary once again flying in East Sussex. A true measure of success with any reintroduction may be several years down the line when the population continues to be self sustaining and able to establish satellite colonies away from the introduction site, but so far so good.
Hats off to everyone who has been involved in the project.
Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene)
(females)
(males)
The Chimney Sweeper moth is another rare species in East Sussex and only occurs in discrete colonies on a handful of sites, where its foodplant grows in unimproved Wealden meadows.
Chimney Sweeper (Odezia atrata)
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