THE INFLUENCE OF SHADE ON BUTTERFLIES IN RIDES OF CONIFERIZED LOWLAND WOODS IN SOUTHERN ENGLAND AND IMPLICATIONS FOR CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT

The effect of shade on butterflies in rides and other open areas was examined in seven ancient woodlands that had been planted with conifers. Thirty-nine species of butterfly were recorded. Shade, both direct and indirect, was measured by hemispherical photography. A regression model related butterfly species-richness and abundance to shade, ride length and inherent wood differences, and in all case indirect shade was a better predictor than direct shade. There were no significant wood x shade interactions so inferred individual species preferences may have general application. These preferences can be used, in conjunction with models of the relationship between tree height and ride width, to predict the effects of increasing shade during the crop rotation on butterfly populations, and management requirements to maintain these populations.