Large Blue Butterfly spreading, thanks to the railways.

Network Rail has won a top conservation award. It was nominated by the charity Butterfly Conservation for work carried out along a stretch of track in Somerset to help the Large Blue, one of Britain’s rarest butterfly species.

The Large Blue became extinct in the UK in 1979, but has since been re-introduced by a partnership of organisations led by the charity Butterfly Conservation and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.

When a colony of Large Blues spread from the initial re-introduction site to an embankment along the nearby Taunton to Paddington railway line, Network Rail was keen to ensure it thrived there.
Dr. Martin Warren, Chief Executive of Butterfly Conservation, said: ‘Network Rail’s support has been critical to extend the Large Blue habitat and help ensure its long term survival. Railway embankments are increasingly important for butterflies as they connect habitats together. As the climate changes butterflies use these access routes to reach new areas to colonise.’ ‘Butterflies are indicators of the health of the environment. By ensuring land is managed for butterflies, we are preserving the countryside for all species.’

Network Rail has created a specially designed habitat in Somerset. The Large Blue has a unique life cycle and is dependent on the presence of both the red ant and wild thyme, and it is crucial that the habitat receives full sunshine to promote the growth of the wild thyme.

Roy Hamlin, Network Rail’s General Manager for the West Country, said: ‘With the help of the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology we have built two new habitats beside the railway with south facing slopes, which will provide the site with sunlight, allowing the butterfly to flourish. ‘As well as providing a safe and reliable railway, it is also important that we protect the environment. Therefore we employ a number of environmental experts, as well as fund many similar projects throughout the railway. We are proud to accept an award which acknowledges this work.’

Brain Marsh (OBE), founder of the Marsh Christian Trust, said: ‘The vital input provided by Network Rail into the work of Butterfly Conservation has made an outstanding

contribution to the preservation of the Large Blue butterfly and I hope that many of us will look at railway sidings with renewed interest during long train journeys now. We are delighted to honour Network Rail with this Award.’