Despite a challenging summer for butterflies, Scotland is witnessing unexpected positive developments in its lepidopteran population, attributed to global warming.
Notably, the recent sightings of two butterfly species highlight the impact of changing climates on wildlife distribution.
This year marked the first official recording of the gatekeeper butterfly north of the border in over a century.
Common in England, the gatekeeper has been spotted in various locations, including the Crook of Baldoon RSPB reserve near Wigtown, Dumfries and Galloway.
George Thomson, author of The Butterflies of Scotland, captured the first photographic evidence of a female gatekeeper in his garden, signaling a significant range expansion for this species.
Adding to the excitement, the elusive white-letter hairstreak butterfly, previously recorded only near the River Tweed in 2017, has now been found in Dundee—over 60 miles north of its original sighting.
The white-letter hairstreak expands its range, now thriving over 60 miles north in Dundee.This increase in species diversity underscores the potential for butterflies to adapt to new environments as temperatures rise.
Other butterflies, such as the holly blue, wall brown, small skipper, and large skipper, have also expanded their northern ranges in recent years.
Interestingly, species struggling in southern regions, like the small tortoiseshell, seem to be faring better in Scotland.
These developments illustrate the importance of maintaining corridors of wildlife-friendly habitats.
Such corridors not only support butterflies but also facilitate the movement of various species as they seek new landscapes in the face of rapid climatic changes.
As Scotland’s butterfly population adapts to a warmer climate, the ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts remain crucial for sustaining biodiversity in the region.