A worrying drop in key wildlife species was recorded on the Isle of Wight in 2025, with local experts blaming drought conditions and the knock-on effects of changing food supplies.
Among the most concerning findings is the complete absence of dark green fritillary butterflies on Mottistone Down – a site where they are usually seen in good numbers.
Paul Davies, Countryside Manager for the Isle of Wight
“It’s a real anomaly.
“This butterfly depends on the hairy violet, a plant that is very sensitive to drought. The dry conditions this year seem to have had a devastating impact.”
The news comes despite a better-than-average year for the Adonis blue butterfly, another species with a stronghold on the Island. Numbers were up at Compton and Mottistone Downs, thanks to the success of its food plant, horseshoe vetch, earlier in the year. But even this may be short-lived.
Paul went on to say:
“Like most plants, horseshoe vetch would have suffered in the later drought.
Article continues below this advertisement “That could impact butterfly numbers next season.”
Breeding birds of prey have also had a tough year across the Island, particularly barn owls and kestrels. Long-established nesting sites failed to produce chicks, which rangers say is due to both natural population cycles and the effects of the hot, dry summer.
Ian Ridett, Area Ranger for the Isle of Wight.
“Vole numbers were already lower this year after a peak in 2023.
“But the drought made things worse by stunting grass growth, which is vital for voles. With less food available, the birds simply couldn’t raise young.”
The findings highlight how quickly weather patterns and habitat conditions can impact Island wildlife – and why monitoring and conservation efforts remain critical.
I believe some of those butterflies moved down to just below the downs on the wet peat areas not affected by the drought so much. There were certainly a lot, lot more of those butterflies this year.
Really ? or is this a net zero climate crap agenda thing.