Scattery Island: A Haven for Biodiversity and Rural Island Ecology
Scattery Island is a place of exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity. A paradise, where a rich array of flora and fauna flourish. The island is a designated Special Area of Conservation, and because of this, has escaped modern development or commercialization, allowing nature to thrive as intended. It really is the perfect example of how nature conservation can help protect and preserve the rich biodiversity of our planet.
One of the most striking features on Scattery Island is its wildflowers. The island’s diverse range of habitats is the perfect home for butterflies and bees. Every since I was a child walking the island with my father, my favourite time of the year was spring when the island’s grassy paths are carpeted with daisies and the landscape is adorned with colourful wildflowers, like buttercups, bluebells, Yellow horned poppies, Scarlet Pimpernel, Burdock, bittersweet, Dove’s Foot and many more. These wildflowers not only provide food for the butterflies and bees, but also create a stunning and diverse landscape that is a joy to behold.
One of the most beautiful and important creatures that make their home on Scattery island is the butterfly. March 14th is World Butter Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the beauty and importance of these majestic insects. These beautifully decorated insects play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They are important pollinators, helping to fertilize plants and crops and are an essential part of the food chain!
The presence of wildflowers is essential for butterflies, as a source of food during their adult stage. Wildflowers produce rich nectar for the butterflies, and without them, the butterflies would not survive. Wildflowers are also vital for the survival of bees, another important pollinator and a contributor to our own food supply. As human activities such as habitat destruction and the use of pesticides continue to threaten the survival of many butterfly species, it’s more important than ever to protect and promote the growth of wildflowers. By planting a little patch of wildflower garden, you can create a network of habitats that supports pollinators and helps to ensure the survival of these vital species.
To celebrate today’s World Butterfly Day (March 14th), we’ve been sharing these little packs of wild flower seeds to encourage everyone to plant a little wild flower garden of their own. These little seed packs will be also available in our ticket office during the summer months.
Scattery Island serves as an important reminder of the beauty and value of nature. By protecting and preserving its unique habitat, we can ensure that the island’s rich biodiversity continues to flourish for generations to come and by promoting the growth of wildflowers, we hope that we can do our little bit to help support and protect the pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, that are essential to our ecosystems.
March is a good month to plant wild flower seeds, so there’s never been a better time to do your bit!
Below is a link to a list of the range of plants that thrive on Scattery island!