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NEWSLETTER No. 5 -  Summer 1981

WEST MIDLANDS BRANCH, BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION

 

Habitat Surveys

At the recent BBCS AGM it was reported that there is still a disappointing shortage of members engaged upon Habitat Surveys. This scheme is very important to the society as a source of information on butterfly populations and, perhaps of even greater importance, on trends between one year and the next. As all members have, by definition, an interest in conservation, may we appeal to as many West Midlands branch members as possible to commence surveys this season? All members can participate as you do not need to be an expert. The scheme is quite straightforward, as outlined below:

1. Site:  The site chosen does not have to be one containing rare species. The requirement is for several visits spread over the season, so it is as well to choose a site within easy reach of home. (Are you sure that you do not already visit such a site?).

2. Recording:  The recording forms are very simple to complete and need to be sent in only once a year. Population estimates based on numbers seen are on a scale of 1 to 5, from "a single specimen" to "extremely common".

3. Species:  All observed species are noted. Remember it is the trend from year to year which is important. It is as well to keep some kind of diary record to assist you in summarising your observations at the season's end.

4. Feedback:  The information you provide will form the basis of statistics published from time to time (see BBCS News - Spring 1981) but you will not need normally to enter into individual correspondence over your reports.

If the above has convinced you that these simple tasks enable you to join this positive means of contributing to butterfly conservation, please contact the BBCS Habitat Survey Officer, Mr R. Goodden at Worldwide Butterflies Ltd., Compton House, Sherbourne, Dorset, DT9 4QN for a supply of forms and full details. There is no need to wait for the forms before choosing your site and starting your survey.

Help us to make the West Midlands area the best recorded.

Ron Hatton