Butterflies have been given their own official guide for the first time, with the release of an identification resource by Manx Wildlife Trust.
The fold-out guide details all 19 regularly occurring Manx butterflies, including migratory species such as Painted Ladies and Red Admirals.
It also features colourful day-flying moths often mistaken for butterflies, including the Hummingbird Hawkmoth.
Until now, local nature lovers have relied on British and Irish guides featuring around 60 species, the majority not found in the Island, leading to confusion and misidentification.
Environment
Dr Jennifer Sharp of the Manx Biological Recording Partnership said: “Butterflies are a barometer of our natural environment and can be found in all Manx habitats, from gardens and parks to woodlands, our coastline and within farmed fields.”
The guide is fully bilingual thanks to financial and linguistic assistance from Culture Vannin. It contains local biological data based on more than 150,000 records, including distribution, flight times, and caterpillar food plants.
David Bellamy, Head of Conservation & Land at MWT, said: “Whilst the Island only supports a small number of butterflies, they are undoubtedly amongst our most beautiful and beloved invertebrates.”
Free copies will go to all Manx schools, public libraries, scout and guide groups. Copies are also available to buy at MWT gift shops in Peel and the Douglas Sea Terminal.