Habitat management interventions for a specialist mid- successional grassland butterfly, the Lulworth Skipper.

ABSTRACT: Evidence-based management is needed to reverse declines in insect abundance. The Lulworth Skipper Thymelicus acteon is a range-restricted and declining species in the UK and northern Europe associated with mid-successional grassland, which presents management challenges because interventions are necessary to prevent long-term habitat deterioration but can result in short-term reductions in quality. In addition, site management should be compatible for the focal species and for wider plant and insect diversity. We conducted factorial experimental management trials to understand effects of cutting and rotovation on the height and structure of vegetation containing the larval host plant Tor-grass Brachypodium rupestre. We monitored vegetation height, B. rupestre cover and

SUBMITTER: Jones R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11870902 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature