2 minute read
Editorial
Peter Maddison As the season unfolds we watch intrigued as butterflies appear half a month or so before their expected emergence! We can only observe as the high altitude jet streams and anti-cyclonic weather patterns bring us months of dry, warm weather, and phenological surprises; and it seems that we have no more control over the present climate of government directives and financial cutbacks.
However it is evident that people power is persuasive: the government had to rethink their policy on forestry sell-off and within Suffolk it is people pressure that has brought about the reprieve of some public services. The Branch committee sought clarification from the County Council about the proposal to dispose of Country Parks. Knettishall Heath and Ramparts Meadow, for example, have important butterfly and moth interest and our committee has been able to offer specific management advice. The swingeing cuts to the grants from central government are beginning to affect the environmental work done by professional bodies and charities. As jobs are lost the prospect of holding on to our wildlife and its further enrichment present a huge challenge.
The support that Butterfly Conservation members give has become even more important. Our subscriptions are our first line of support, and in this newsletter Richard Stewart considers the benefit of joining other Branches. This is not only informative for members it is financially beneficial to BC too. Recording is another means of offering support and whilst Rob Parker is delighted to receive all your butterfly records, Mark Nowers is leading this year’s special survey of the Wall. The Wider Countryside Butterfly Survey continues for its third year and we have an extensive field events programme in which the identification and recording of butterflies takes a high priority. Our events are open to everyone. Beginners seeking help with the naming of butterflies are very welcome to join us, as are experienced enthusiasts who may be searching for a single target species. Or perhaps the fascinating world of moths intrigues you, Tony Prichard our county moths Conservation Officer, whose address is on the Contacts page, would be pleased to hear from you. The Moth Group has a full programme of events throughout the season www.suffolkmoths.org.uk .
Richard Stewart has sent an update about his recently published book of haiku poems, Dark Sky Dancing. He writes: ‘Thanks to publicity in this newsletter and elsewhere, plus very good reviews in poetry magazines, all the original print run and extra copies ordered have been sold. A profit of just over a hundred pounds was made, all going to Butterfly Conservation. Most was sent to our Suffolk Branch, hopefully to help in the renewed Brimstone and Buckthorn campaign. ’ Thank you, Richard!
