Purple Copper Butterfly Community Day
Purple Copper Butterfly Community Day
Extending coverage and providing support to more groups, networks and landholders
Reaching Out -
LLCI002-005
The issue
The Purple Copper Butterfly (Paralucia spinifera) is a small native butterfly that only occurs in the Central Tablelands Region and is protected under both state and federal legislation as a threatened species. The butterfly's life cycle is very specific; relying on an ant, a blackthorn plant, and requires altitudes above 850m.
Much of the Butterfly's habitat within the Lithgow valley occurs between the urban interface and bushland where increased development, vegetation clearing, weed invasion, and changed fire regimes are some of the identified threats that currently impact upon local populations. One such susceptible population is found on land leased by the Lithgow Pony Club on the foot slopes of the Lithgow valley and township.
The solution
Lithgow Oberon Landcare Association (LOLA) has partnered with the local Pony Club and Lithgow City Council to hold community information, weed control and planting days. Landcare volunteers, Pony Club members and the broader community were invited to learn more about this fascinating species from experts and contribute time toward enhancing butterfly habitat.
The impact
The most recent Purple Copper Butterfly Day promoted Biodiversity Month. Volunteers helped improve butterfly habitat surrounding the Pony Club through revegetation and supported weed control works planting 200 native food plants including native Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa ssp. lasiophylla) - which larvae depends upon as a sole food source when it first emerges, before becoming a butterfly.
Learnings
Integrated partnerships for holistic outcomes is key for long-term land and biodiversity management. The event provided an opportunity for all to interact in a positive and hands-on way with local natural landscapes.
Key facts
- 200 native plants and weed management activities have resulted in increased butterfly habitat
- Awareness raised and stewardship fostered through providing opportunities to connect people, communities and environment.