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Lesser butterfly orchid

What action is going on for this species?

The following will give you information on what work has been taking place through the Species Action Framework:

Species background

Lesser butterfly orchid (Platanthera bifolia) is an attractive orchid which has between 15 and 25 creamy-white flowers tinged with green borne on a central stem growing to a height of 30cm. It normally flowers in June and July, and has a sweet scent

Why is this on the Species Action List?

It meets criterion 1a of the Species Action Framework, as a species for conservation action.

It has suffered a 33% decline across Britain between 1964 and 2002 and remains under threat.  There is good knowledge of the requirements of the species and targeted action is likely to make a difference.

It is not a UKBAP Priority Species at present but is under active consideration as part of the Priority Species and Habitats Review.  It is included on the Scottish Biodiversity List.

Habitat, distribution and abundance

Lesser butterfly orchid grow in a variety of habitats in heathland, grassland, open scrub, woodland edges and on moorland.  It is tolerant of wet conditions and in Scotland is usually found in moist grassland and heathland.  It also grows on a range of soil types, from acid to calcareous, overlying sands, gravels and clays. 

This is a relatively widespread species in Scotland, especially along the west coast and on the islands, but it is now relatively uncommon in the south and east, and also scattered in west Wales, north-west and south-west England, Northern Ireland and central Ireland.  The total population size in the UK is unknown but is likely to be in the thousands. However, it is not usually found in dense stands and populations of over 100 individuals are infrequent, with groups containing just a few plants being more usual.

It occurs throughout Europe, the Caucasus, north Asia and north Africa.

General ecology

Whilst habitat management for species-rich grassland and heathland areas would be suitable for the lesser butterfly orchid, it is often found in small sites or corners of rough grassland/heath that have been left alone and not taken into cultivation.  Deferring mowing of roadside verges until after mid-July (where there is no threat to visibility and sight lines) would avoid cutting off the flowering spikes, and would therefore be of benefit.

History of decline, contributory factors and current threats

The species has suffered a considerable decline, with many losses in England occurring before 1930.  It has suffered more than 33% decline throughout Britain between 1964 and 2002.  Drainage of fields, woodland disturbance, ploughing up of grassland and heathland, spreading of fertilizers, spraying with herbicides, heavy grazing during the summer, and cutting of roadside verges in the flowering season are all activities that have brought about its decline.  All of these pressures still exist.

The 'Species Lead' at Scottish Natural Heritage

Robin.Payne@snh.gov.uk   Tel 01738 458569