Heath fritillary (Mellicta athalia)

Species information

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Threats

The heath fritillary has suffered as a result of the decline in coppice management as well as the widespread coniferisation of deciduous woodland. On moorland, a lack of regular burning and suitable grazing regimes has contributed to the decline (5). Further problems arise as populations become increasingly fragmented and isolated (5).

Conservation

It is likely that the heath fritillary would have become extinct in England if it were not for the huge conservation effort that has been undertaken to save it (6). The ideal management techniques for this species are well understood; woodlands should be coppiced on a rotational basis (5), and clearings should be linked with rides (6). A number of nature reserves in Kent have been managed in this way, which has stimulated large increases in the numbers of this species. The National Trust has also managed heathland habitat in Exmoor in ways that suit the heath fritillary, with sheep and cattle grazing, and a programme of rotational burning of the heath to maintain a short sward. The heath fritillary is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (3).