Butterfly Once Declared Extinct In UK Spotted On Isle Of Wight

A butterfly once officially classed as extinct in the UK has been spotted on the Isle of Wight, according to conservationists.

The Large Tortoiseshell Butterfly has recently been seen at sites across southern England, including the Isle of Wight, as well as Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Dorset and Cornwall.

The sightings have prompted Butterfly Conservation to declare the species a resident breeding butterfly in the UK once again, rather than simply a migratory visitor.

The butterfly was once widespread across England and Wales but had not been recorded breeding in Britain since the 1980s.

Experts say the decline was largely linked to the spread of Dutch Elm Disease during the 20th century, which devastated elm trees where the butterflies lay their eggs.

Although there have been occasional sightings since the species was declared extinct in Britain, reports have become increasingly common in recent weeks, with around 20 recorded across southern England.

Professor Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, said the reason for the butterfly’s disappearance from Britain is still unclear.

He believes changing climate conditions may now be helping the species expand its range across Europe, allowing it to return to places such as the Isle of Wight.

The conservation charity says the sightings are encouraging news at a time when many butterfly species across the UK are in decline.