Blog: Wildflower Meadows Project

Abigail Hardwick writes about Tropical World's dedication to butterflies and their habitats:

Tropical World was originally built in 1911, over the years the conservatory building has had many names, but always the same clear goal to protect and conserve species and connect with the local community, providing a place for all to marvel in the wonder of the natural world.

Butterflies have always been a fundamental part of Tropical World, and over the years with a substantial decline in native butterflies and native species overall. The Tropical World team wanted to act and help save these species and protect their habitats. Being part of the Local council’s greenspaces and park initiatives, there were already some fantastic projects underway! 

We decided to establish Wildflower Meadows within Roundhay Park to be able to introduce native wildflowers which will provide habitat and food for native butterfly species in addition to other invertebrates. We wanted to involve the local community in protecting wild spaces and native species and educate and raise awareness of the decline in butterfly populations and how the public can get involved to save these unique species.

Working alongside local community members, volunteers, and the charity Butterfly Conservation we started work. This allowed knowledge and skills shared between institutions, with advice on meadow development, butterfly species, interpretation, and signage. We hope projects like these will help to inspire young conservationists on the importance of wild spaces, habitat protection and native species identification.

We used this project as a platform to showcase the non-native butterflies that can be seen inside the visitor attraction, gain momentum and participation from local schools and children to take part in the annual Big Butterfly Count, to which we host event weekends every year. We do this in an aim to provide a holistic approach to conservation and education but also fun. Teaching our visitors that every small change can make a difference, and everyone can participate!

- by Ms. Abigail Hardwick (Curator of Tropical World, Leeds)

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