The Big Biodiversity Butterfly Count 2008
A Brighton and Hove Biodiversity Action Plan Event
- Download our Brighton and Hove Butterfly Survey here.
What is Biodiversity?
Biodiversity is the amazing richness and variety of wildlife and habitats on earth.
Why is Biodiversity so important?
A natural world with a high biodiversity is one that is able to supply a whole host of invisible services that make life on Earth possible for us. For example; it provides us with clean water and air, pollinates our crops and disperse seeds, protect us from extreme weather, controls pests and disease-carrying organisms. In other words, Biodiversity supports our daily lives; in return our every action affects Biodiversity.
Are there any threats to Biodiversity?
Yes, they are many and varied and include all of the present environmental concerns such as; fragmentation of habitats, climate change and global warming, population increase and subsequent overdevelopment, pollution etc.
Where do Butterflies come in?
Butterflies and Moths respond quickly to any small changes in their habitats and microclimates and since they are representative of all insects they act as fantastic indicators of the health of at least half of the biodiversity of the planet. They are also quite easy to identify.
How does this help us?
If we know what is happening to butterfly populations we have a good idea of what is happening to the rest of the ecosystems in which they live. In local and regional environments we can use this information to help write appropriate Biodiversity Action Plans.
What is a Biodiversity Action Plan?
A BAP is an agreed agenda for enhancing the natural environment to which a wide range of people and organisations can contribute.
Do we have a BAP for Brighton and Hove?
Yes, or at least for School Grounds, which form 15% of the total open space of the City. The BAP steering group are keen to develop a BAP for the rest of the City.
So what is the steering group going to do to promote the BAP?
To raise awareness of Biodiversity and in particular of Butterflies and Moths the we are organising a Big Biodiversity Butterfly Count.
What is the BBBC?
It is a series of Butterfly and Moth focused events, which will take place around the City over 4 days at a number of different Schools and with the help of various different Friends of Groups.
When is the BBBC?
Thursday July 10th until Sunday 13th July.
Where will this take place?
Many events will take place across the whole of the City and many more are presently being organised. In the lead up to the BBBC and throughout the week the events will be supported and promoted by BBC Breathing Places and the Brighton and Hove Libraries so keep an eye out as there is bound to be something happening near you.
What events will be happening?
- Thursday 10th July: Primary Schools. Butterfly related art, Butterfly walks, Gardening for Butterflies and Moths
- Friday 11th July: Secondary Schools. Moth Trapping, Butterfly Transect work (recording butterflies), paralleling the work done by the Kumasi secondary senior technical high school in Ghana
- Saturday 12th July: Dorothy Stringer High School Environmental Fayre. To include David Bellamy, Inspecting a moth trap with local school children, opening the Breathing Places Butterfly Haven and ceremonial planting of Elm trees to attract White-letter Hairstreak Butterflies. Live telephone link with Kumasi secondary senior technical high school, Ghana
- Sunday 13th July Community Day: David Bellamy to visit friends of different sites around Brighton and Hove, undertaking Butterfly Walks and other events yet to be confirmed
Are there any other organisations involved?
The Steering Group have a number of partner organisations which include: Sussex Wildlife Trust, Dorothy Stringer High School, Tree Appeal, Family Investments, Butterfly Conservation, Sussex Moth Group, Brighton and Hove Countryside Team, Brighton and Hove Library Service and BBC Breathing Places.
What do we want to get out of the BBBC?
To encourage an interest in butterflies and moths and to gather as much information about their whereabouts in Brighton and Hove, so that it can be recorded on the City Wildlife Website.
How can I get involved with the BBBC?
If you would like to organise an event in your area or you would just like to know where there may be an event near you contact: Martin Pett, The School Grounds BAP Officer, Stanmer Nursery Offices, Stanmer Park, Lewes Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 9SE, tel 01273 292370, or email martin.pett@brighton-hove.gov.uk.
What can I do to support Biodiversity in Brighton and Hove long term?
You might like to become a Brighton and Hove Nature Warden, for details visit the City Wildlife Website at www.citywildlife.org.uk.
