Insights

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is undertaking efforts to protect the rare dark-bordered beauty moth, which is on the brink of extinction, while simultaneously utilizing its site for military training. This moth, found at Strensall Common near York, is now limited to a single known location in England. The MoD, in collaboration with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and biologists from the University of York, aims to balance military needs with conservation efforts. Since records began in 1894, the moth's population has plummeted by over 90%, with only 50 to 100 individuals remaining in the 57-hectare area. The moth relies on creeping willow for food and reproduction, but this vital plant is declining due to wildfires and grazing by livestock. To combat this, the MoD is providing funding and materials to fence off areas of creeping willow, as recommended by biologists. Additionally, volunteers from the charity Butterfly Conservation are cultivating more willow from seed. Dr. Peter Mayhew from the University of York emphasized the cultural significance of the moth, noting that it was first discovered in the UK at this site. He expressed the importance of preserving the moth for future generations, highlighting the unique experience of witnessing it in its natural habitat. Conservationists are also exploring a captive breeding program to further bolster the moth's population, with the only other known population located in Scotland's Cairngorms.