The Lancashire Wildlife Trust (LWT) has begun a drive to reintroduce three rare species to the region: the large heath butterfly, bog bush cricket, and white-faced darter dragonfly. Once common across Lancashire and Greater Manchester’s peat bogs, these insects are vital to the local ecosystem.
The species’ habitats—lowland peatlands—have been reduced by 96% due to human activity. LWT has been restoring these areas by rebuilding water systems and replanting specialist vegetation, and is now seeking £20,000 to complete the project.
“These insects all play vital roles in the peatland ecosystem,” the trust said. The butterfly aids pollination, the cricket breaks down plant matter and feeds birds, and the dragonfly helps control smaller invertebrate populations.
Dr Matt McMullen, senior nature recovery officer, added that the species would struggle to recover on their own due to limited mobility and habitat fragmentation, emphasizing the need for public support to ensure their return.
