Large Copper Butterfly
about
Partners: Natural England
The Large Copper Butterfly (Lycaena dispar), once a native species of Norfolk’s fenlands, was lost to the UK in 1851 due to habitat destruction. Now functionally extinct, only a single privately managed population remains.
To help restore this striking butterfly to the landscape, ZSEA is constructing a specialist polytunnel on site at Banham Zoo to support a groundbreaking breeding and reintroduction programme in partnership with Natural England.
Over 150 caterpillars are currently in hibernation on site, and once they emerge, they will be studied to improve understanding of their life cycle before being released.
This project is part of a broader effort to restore fenland ecosystems, which support a wide range of wildlife, including rare wetland birds and dragonflies. By reintroducing the Large Copper Butterfly, conservationists aim to enhance biodiversity and promote habitat restoration efforts in East Anglia.
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Why is the large copper butterfly being reintroduced?
The large copper butterfly was once native to Norfolk’s fenlands but became extinct in the UK in 1851 due to habitat destruction. By reintroducing this species, conservationists aim to restore biodiversity, strengthen fenland ecosystems, and support other wildlife that depends on these habitats.
How will Banham Zoo support the reintroduction programme?
Banham Zoo is constructing a specialist polytunnel to breed and rear large copper butterflies in partnership with Natural England. Over 150 caterpillars are currently in hibernation on-site, and once they emerge, they will be studied to improve understanding of their life cycle before being released into restored fenland habitats.
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