A new atlas of butterfly observations in Britain shows that several southern species are moving north quickly. The atlas, based on 40,000 observations made by a network of volunteers over 10 years shows that species adapted to northern climates are moving north or uphill, while more broadly distributed species are not changing their distribution.
This atlas is an important early sign that species are already adjusting their geographical distribution in response to climate change. These butterflies may be an early warning sign that species and biological communities are under climate pressure, and range adjustments have already begun. It will be a long time before we see shifts in slower-moving species, including trees.
Observations like these are important because they can improve the ability of biologists to predict the impacts of climate change. There are not presently enough detailed observations being collected about animal and plant species. Networks of volunteers who can make accurate observations over long periods of time are needed, especially at northern latitudes, where the most rapid range changes are anticipated.
Picture: Citrus swallowtail, Papilio demodocus Esper. Picture by David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org. Used by permission. (This butterfly is not one of the species described in the atlas)
Atlas of butterflies shows southern species head north | Environment | The Observer
