Wildlife Conservation

Wild Marsh Fritillary Butterfly Conservation

The marsh fritillary is one of the UK's most threatened butterflies, dependent on devil's-bit scabious in species-rich grasslands. Targeted habitat management has stabilised some populations.

Key Facts

Marsh fritillary populations have declined by over 50% in the UK since the 1970s
Larvae feed communally in silken webs on devil's-bit scabious in autumn
Grazing management must balance sward height requirements for larvae and adults
UK populations are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and EU Habitats Directive
Metapopulation connectivity between grassland patches is essential for long-term viability

Welfare Considerations

Marsh fritillary welfare depends on the survival of species-rich wet grassland habitats that are among the most threatened in the UK. Conservation of this habitat benefits dozens of other invertebrate species simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Support Butterfly Conservation marsh fritillary monitoring and conservation projects
Advocate for targeted agri-environment funding for devil's-bit scabious grassland management
Record marsh fritillary sightings to support population tracking