Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Conservation groups have joined forces to try and halt the decline of rare Culm grassland in Devon.

The grassland - found in parts of West and North Devon - is even more rare than the tropical rain forests, yet is vital for the continued presence of beautiful and threatened species.

Most of the habitat has disappeared in the past century, with just 8% of the grassland recorded in 1900 still remaining. The main causes are draining, ploughing and fertilising.

Walking through the Culm grassland

The loss of the grassland has proved devastating for insects, especially butterflies.

Now, the Butterfly Conservation charity is leading a four year scheme called The Reconnecting the Culm Project, which aims to reverse the decline.

The charity, working with English Nature and the Rural Development Service, is looking to re-establish areas of Culm grassland and link up the existing fragmented sites.

Among the species which live in the habitat are the Marsh Fritillary butterfly, and the Narrow-bordered Bee Hawk-moth. The beautiful Marsh Fritillary has suffered a huge decline as a result of habitat loss.

Marsh Fritillary Butterfly

In the 10 years between 1990 and 2000, their numbers in England plunged by 66%, so protecting their habitat is more important than ever.

Butterfly Conservation's Culm Grassland Project Officer, Peter Burgess, says they need the help of local farmers.

"Without extensive cattle grazing during the summer months, these grasslands will quickly lose their conservation and agricultural value."

There are fears that if the cattle industry declines, then so will the habitat and the creatures it supports.

The project is offering free support and advice on farming and wildlife grants, and hopes to increase co-operative working between landowners in the area.Μύ