Invertebrates

Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene)

Objectives

In the short term, safeguard all existing colonies of small pearl-bordered fritillaries.
In the medium term, if feasible, increase the number of populations of small pearl-bordered fritillaries within the county.

Targets

Maintain and, where feasible, increase the population numbers of small pearl-bordered fritillaries at their current sites by suitable habitat management by 2005.

Total achievements to date (November 1998 - March 2001)

The West Midlands Branch of Butterfly Conservation is the Lead Organisation for this species.
Three sites are known for this species within the County.
Butterfly Conservation monitored the population on Cannock Chase in 1999.

Current Action

Protection and Policy

The small pearl-bordered fritillary is listed as a protected species under schedule 5 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act (1981) - for sale only.
The two colonies are present within notified SSSIs and receive protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act (1981).
Butterfly Conservation is the lead organisation for small pearl-bordered fritillary in Staffordshire.

Management, Research and Survey

The three current sites where the butterfly is present are all currently managed for their wildlife interest.

Action Plan

UK Lead Organisation:

N/A

County Lead Organisation:

Butterfly Conservation

Policy

Promote the 'Saving Cannock Chase' Project: the location of probably the largest populations of this species. (SCC, SWMHP)
bullet point (abb)
bullet point (abb)

Management

Encourage favourable management in areas of Cannock Chase next to established colonies to maintain a network of suitable habitat for re-colonisation. (SCC, EN)
Seek to manage all current small pearl-bordered fritillary colonies to maintain and enhance the habitat at an optimum level for this species. (SCC, Landowners, EN)

Monitoring and Research

Monitor all current populations of small pearl-bordered fritillary within the county. (BC)
Carry out updated surveys throughout the county to establish all current known colonies and suitable areas for re-introductions. (BC, SWT)
Seek to carry out research on the habitat requirements of this species in Staffordshire. (BC, SWT)

Advisory

Increase species awareness for the public and landowners through education, promotion and events. (SBAP Partnership)

Complementary Plans