The LIFE Apollo2020 partner consortium has successfully submitted the Midterm Report to CINEA (European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency), marking a significant step in the conservation and reintroduction of Parnassius apollo in the project regions. This crucial initiative is focused on stabilizing and increasing the last populations of this endangered butterfly.
Project Regions
The project is being implemented across four key regions:
Sudetes
Austrian Alps
White Carpathians (Slovakia & Czech Republic)
Key Achievements in the First Half of the Project:
✅ Reintroduction of Parnassius apollo in target habitats to strengthen local populations. ✅ Habitat Restoration through vegetation management, nectar plant cultivation, and Apollo Gardens. ✅ Public Engagement & Education via workshops, outreach campaigns, and awareness initiatives. ✅ Monitoring & Research to assess population health, habitat quality, and reintroduction success.
Focus for the Second Half:
🔹 Enhancing Population Growth – Expanding conservation measures to strengthen butterfly numbers. 🔹 Long-Term Habitat Management – Improving habitat connectivity and ecological stability. 🔹 Scientific Conference & Knowledge Exchange – Hosting an event to share best practices and research. 🔹 Advanced Monitoring & Research – Continuing assessment of population dynamics and habitat effectiveness.
We extend our appreciation to all partners, stakeholders, and conservationists dedicated to protecting Parnassius apollo. As we move into the second phase of the project, we remain committed to securing a sustainable future for this iconic butterfly species.
We are thrilled to announce that the LIFE Apollo2020 project has achieved a significant milestone: the successful reintroduction of the Apollo (Parnassius apollo) into two key habitats in Austria—Leisach in Tyrol and Rheindamm in Vorarlberg. Carried out between 2023 and 2024 as part of Action C3.3: Reintroduction in the Austrian Alps, these efforts are a cornerstone of the project’s mission to restore this iconic species to its natural environment. This success was driven by dedicated teamwork of Austrian partner and the invaluable expertise of the Saalfelden breeding farm, led by Otto Feldner. His extensive experience in breeding and reintroduction played a crucial role in achieving this goal. Together, careful planning and collaboration have shown how conservation efforts can reverse biodiversity loss and bring endangered species back to thriving habitats.
Leisach: A jewel of the Tyrolean Alps along the railway
The Leisach habitat, located in Tyrol, is characterised by rocky, sunlit terrain with steep slopes, frequent rockfalls, and nutrient-poor soils. These xerothermic conditions make it ideal for Parnassius apollo. However, prior to the project, the species had disappeared from the area.
Habitat restoration and critical preparatory actions were crucial to enable the successful reintroduction of the Apollo in Leisach. One major challenge for the successful reintroduction of Apollo was the glyphosate use along the railway track that crosses the habitat. However, through the dedicated lobbying efforts of the Austrian partner, the European Wilderness Society, the cessation of glyphosate use by ÖBB was successfully achieved in 2022. This precaution was essential to protect the Apollo’s food sources and ensure a safe environment for reintroduction. Another crucial step was the planting of over 500 Sedum plants, such as Sedum album and Sedum maximum, to provide a sufficient feeding base for the reintroduced caterpillars.
Preparations for Sedum plantingCarrying and planting Sedum on the steep slopes of Leisach is no easy task
Reintroduction efforts began in 2023 with the release of 40 Apollo caterpillars, marking the start of the species’ return to Leisach. In 2024, these efforts expanded with the release of 100 more caterpillars and additional Sedum planting (S. album, S. maximum, and S. sexangulare). Monitoring has shown promising results, with a thriving population of caterpillars and imagos confirming the habitat’s suitability for the Apollo. Despite human and natural challenges, the careful planning and implementation of restoration measures have ensured the long-term potential of this remarkable site.
Apollo caterpillars ready to be launched 🙂Releasing caterpillars on the feeding plants
Rheindamm: A restored haven along the river Rhine
The Rheindamm habitat in Vorarlberg is situated along a man-made flood control dam, stretching alongside the Rhine River. The dam, constructed to protect surrounding communities from flooding, is characterised by rocky, south-facing slopes and nutrient-poor soils, creating ideal conditions for Parnassius apollo. However, being part of the Natura 2000 conservation area, all restoration actions required close collaboration and trust-building with local authorities. These efforts ensured that conservation measures were implemented with full agreement and alignment with existing priorities.
As in Leisach, the planting of Sedum species (S. album, S. sexangulare, S. sempervivum) was essential to secure a sufficient food supply for Apollo caterpillars. Over 700 Sedum plants were planted between 2022 and 2024, transforming the habitat into a thriving ecosystem for Apollo.
The reintroduction began in 2023 with the release of 300 eggs and 80 caterpillars, followed in 2024 by the addition of 250 eggs and 150 caterpillars. Reintroducing Apollo eggs is a delicate task that requires manual precision and patience. The eggs, which are really tiny, must be carefully placed either on the finger or with a fine brush to avoid any damage or unwanted loss. It is also important to position the eggs close to feeding plants, such as Sedum, Sempervivum, and Rhodiola species, to ensure that newly hatched larvae can immediately access a suitable food source.
Released caterpillars in RheindammTiny Apollo eggs are about to be laid on Sedum album plants
The success at Rheindamm highlights the importance of long-term planning and collaboration with local stakeholders, ensuring the habitat remains a safe haven for Parnassius apollo.
Securing the Apollo’s future
The establishment of thriving Apollo populations in Leisach and Rheindamm represents a significant milestone, but it is only the beginning. The ultimate goal of the LIFE Apollo2020 project in Austria is to establish self sustaining Apollo populations at all project sites, ensuring the species’ long-term survival across its historical range.
In order to achieve this vision, the European Wilderness Society, in collaboration with the experienced breeder Otto Feldner, is making continuous and dedicated efforts to expand these successes to other reintroduction sites. Their work involves breeding high-quality individuals at the Saalfelden breeding farm, improving habitat conditions, and gradually reintroducing more Apollo butterflies to additional locations.
Future actions will include:
Ongoing monitoring of populations and habitats to ensure long-term success.
Continued Sedum planting and nectar planting to secure a robust food supply for Apollo caterpillars (larvae) and adult butterflies (imagines).
Strengthening collaborations with landowners and authorities to protect existing and new reintroduction sites.
Selective shrub removal to open up habitats, whether for new reintroduction efforts or for existing populations that require support to thrive.
Arranging insect-friendly mowing and grazing practices, in coordination with landowners and authorities, whenever possible and agreeable.
By combining expert and decades of knowledge, habitat restoration, and collaborative partnerships, the project is setting the stage for self-sustaining Apollo populations across Austria. These efforts also contribute to the wider conservation of biodiversity and the ecological resilience of these regions. The Apollo’s return to these landscapes is a powerful symbol of resilience and hope, showcasing how dedicated conservation efforts can reverse biodiversity loss and restore iconic species to their rightful habitats.
Butterfly breeding farms typically aim to contribute to the conservation of endangered species, such as the Apollo butterfly. These farms often involve the careful cultivation of host plants, creating suitable habitats for the butterflies and implementing controlled breeding programs.
Breeding farm in Jagniątków. Photo: Aleksandra Puchtel
Four breeding farms are currently in operation as part of the LIFE Apollo2020 project. Two of them: in Poland (Jagniątków, Sudetes) and in Austria (Saalfelden, Alps) were already operational before the project started. The other two have been established as part of the project’s activities: the farm in Poland (Uniemyśl, Sudetes), and in Czechia (Barchov, Sudetes). As part of the project, it is also planned to run a second breeding farm in Czechia in the White Carpathians.
A newly established breeding farm in Uniemyśl.Our breeding farm in Jagniątków as seen from the inside. Photo: Aleksandra Puchtel
Breeding success in butterfly farms can be influenced by various factors, including environmental conditions. Cold weather in spring can pose a challenge to the breeding process, as it may affect the development of butterfly eggs, larvae, and pupae. Butterflies are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature is regulated by external conditions. Extreme cold can slow down their metabolic processes and developmental stages, leading to reduced breeding success. On the other hand, excessively high temperatures in the breeding season can lead to increased mortality.
Caterpillars hatching from eggs. Photo: Kamila GrzesiakCaterpillars feeding on Sedum maximum. Photo: Miloš Andres
In the new breeding tents, the location had to be tested and solutions relating to sunlight and thermals had to be adapted. However, even in breeding farms that have been in operation for many years, there are still situations that can come as a surprise. The climate is changing, and even in cooler mountainous regions, extremely high temperatures can occur. This past spring, however, surprised us in a different way in the Sudetes. It was rainy, cool, and there were few sunny days.
The Apollo butterfly individual tagged before being released into the habitat. Photo: Kamila GrzesiakSpecial sleeves in which females are kept during egg-laying. Photo: Miloš Andres
In some farms, we encountered unexpected problems related to egg and caterpillar mortality, as well as the transitional phase occurring between developmental stages and the mating process of butterflies. Certain issues were attributed to the weather conditions, particularly the excessively rainy and overcast conditions during spring and early summer. This was particularly evident in the breeding site of Uniemyśl in the Sudetes, where the phenology at all stages of the insects’ lives was delayed compared to other breeding farms.
Caterpillars in a specially arranged breeding container. Photo: Dariusz KuśCaterpillars at the stage just before entering the pupal stage. Photo: Miloš Andres
Some of these problems, however, make us reflect on our breeding methods and will force us to make some modifications and adjustments to the breeders themselves as well as the breeding tents. Failures are a natural part of any process. They prompt us to make improvements and to create variants to deal with negative changes in external conditions. To mitigate the impact of weather, butterfly farms may implement measures such as providing sheltered environments, temperature control, and adjusting breeding schedules based on weather forecasts. Additionally, ongoing research and collaboration with experts in entomology and environmental science can contribute to better understanding and addressing the challenges faced by butterfly breeding programs.
Copulating pair of Apollo butterflies. Photo: Miloš AndresFeeding the butterflies with a specially formulated mixture. Photo: Miloš Andres
To enhance our understanding of the breeding process and the breeding materials used, population genetic studies are conducted on the deceased specimens collected from breeding activities in Poland. Furthermore, investigations are carried out to assess the presence of diseases and parasites. Both low genetic diversity and disease factors can be the cause of a decline in breeding performance, and we need to clarify and find solutions to these issues as well. The presence of several breeders in different parts of Europe allows us to collect a lot of data on what can go wrong while securing breeding material and the possibility of exchange between breeders.
Releasing Apollos into the wild. Photo: Piotr Słowiński
Thanks to our collaboration with breeders, last year we successfully released a total of 1240 individuals at reintroduction sites across 11 different locations in the Polish and Czech regions of the Sudetes and the Austrian Alps.
Conservation efforts are evolving with new and innovative approaches. One of our most exciting tools is the Naturschutzhunde, or “conservationdogs”. These specially trained dogs are helping us protect nature and endangered species, playing a vital role in our conservation projects. Their incredible sense of smell makes them indispensable partners in our mission to preserve biodiversity.
Dogs have long served as valuable companions, but their roles have expanded far beyond traditional uses like hunting or guarding. Today, dogs are involved in many fields, including law enforcement, rescue operations, and now, conservation. Over the last 30 years, they have become essential in research and environmental protection projects, including the LIFEApollo2020 project and the Verein NATURSCHUTZHUNDE.
What Are Naturschutzhunde?
Naturschutzhunde are detection dogs trained to find specific wildlife or environmental clues. These dogs can detect traces of elusive or rare species through clues like droppings, nests, feathers, or seeds. For example, they can identify the presence of wolves, helping to inform herding protection measures. They also help track species like lynxes, golden jackals, and wildcats, assisting conservationists in learning more about their distribution.
Here, Naturschutzhunde have become key members of our team, helping us monitor and protect endangered species. These dogs allow us to gather accurate data efficiently while minimizing human disturbance in sensitive areas.
Training the Dogs
Training a Naturschutzhund is a complex process. These dogs learn to detect species-specific markers like larvae, droppings, or nests. Once trained, they can cover large areas quickly and with great accuracy, detecting traces of wildlife that are invisible to the human eye.
The training, based on positive reinforcement, teaches dogs to recognize specific scents and clearly indicate them to their handlers. Suitable candidates for this work are physically fit dogs that enjoy using their noses and can work long hours in challenging terrain. This certification process ensures that the dogs meet high standards before they begin working in the field.
The Role of Naturschutzhunde in the LIFEApollo2020 Project
In the LIFEapollo2020 project, we rely on Naturschutzhunde to monitor and protect Apollo butterfly populations in Austria. This initiative aims to restore the butterfly’s populations across Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The dogs play a critical role in these monitoring efforts across 15 regions in Austria.
How Naturschutzhunde Help:
Finding Larvae: Our dogs are trained to locate Apollo larvae in Sedum-rich areas, which are often difficult to reach. The dogs’ ability to detect larvae is essential to our work.
Accessing Remote Areas: Many of the Apollo’s habitats are located in mountainous regions that are hard for humans to access. Naturschutzhunde help us cover these areas more effectively than human teams alone.
Achievements So Far
Thanks to Naturschutzhunde, we were able to detect Apollo butterfly larvae in several of the 15 areas we surveyed in 2023 and 2024. This has allowed us to protect key regions where butterfly populations remain active.
Naturschutzhunde have proven to be highly effective in various other conservation tasks as well. For instance, they are employed to locate the carcasses of birds and bats near wind turbines, helping us assess the impact of wind farms on protected species. Their superior sense of smell allows them to detect smaller remains in less time than humans.
Researching rare and hidden species often presents challenges, as direct observation is difficult. Scientists typically rely on indirect evidence like droppings, hair, or remains of prey. Naturschutzhunde are excellent at locating these traces, working much faster and more accurately than human researchers. Several of our dog-handler teams are already engaged in scientific projects, further advancing conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Naturschutzhunde have become vital partners in our mission to protect endangered species. Their work in the LIFEapollo2020 project highlights how effective they are in helping safeguard wildlife and fragile ecosystems. As we look to the future, we are confident that these conservation dogs will continue to play an essential role in preserving Austria’s—and Europe’s—natural heritage.
In a world where the connection between humans and nature is more critical than ever, Naturschutzhunde are helping bridge that gap. Their unique abilities allow them to protect endangered species while fostering a deeper bond between humans and the natural world
This post is written by Maria Gezela and Karolina Baranowska and includes a report about their volunteering experience for LIFE Apollo2020 in Poland.
Honestly, not everyone knows what species monitoring is like. That is why we are going to tell you a little bit about it. First of all, we were volunteers for two weeks in the Apollo Volunteering Program that was created in collaboration with Karkonoski Park Narodowy and Klub Przyrodników.
We started our journey on the first of July and got to know everyone that had also participated in this program and read about the biology of Parnassius apollo. On the second day, we got to know Roman, Grzegorz and Dariusz from Karkonoski Park Narodowy and we learned a lot about Parnassius apollo from them. Firstly, we visited Karkonoski Bank Genów in Jagniątków, where there is Parnassius apollo rearing and we saw and got to know about the process.
Then we went to two quarries “Gruszka” and “Miłek” and we had a chance to release the imago form. It was the first time when we had held the butterflies in our hands. We all tried to be gentle with them, they were so beautiful and really special, not like any other butterfly. On the third day we got to know all the reintroduction sites, how they look, where Sedum maximum and nectar-producing plants are. There were eleven reintroduction sites such as: Chojnik, Podzamcze, Sobiesz, Wały Cieplickie, Piastów, Krzyż Jubileuszowy, Góra Szybowcowa, Kamieniołom “Gruszka”, Kamieniołom “Miłek”, Bobrów and Kruczy Kamień.
On Thursday, we all went to Kruczy Kamień and we finally got a chance to learn the transect and CMR methods. Also It was our first time catching butterflies and it was such an amazing experience, which we learned a lot from. Then we went to Karczma Sądowa in Uniemyśl, which is Klub Przyrodników field station. We had some coffee and talked a little bit, got to know the story behind the restoration of this place, because a few years ago it was completly ruined.
On friday, Jacek, Dominika and Ola were monitoring Parnassius apollo in Cieplice, Piastów, Sobiesz, Podzamcze and Chojnik. Karolina and I went to the Klimatyczne Karkonosze event and we colored wooden magnets, earrings and keychains that looked like Parnassius apollo with the children. Also, we educated them about our extraordinary butterfly.
On Saturday, we monitored Parnassius apollo in Kruczy Kamień and it was a huge success for us, we catched 15 individuals in which 5 were new (2 females with sphragis and 3 males). After Kruczy Kamień we went to Bobrów where something funny happened. We all decided to go around this small part of the forest, but we didn’t expect that we would have to climb back to get to our car. In the end we finally got to our car, but it was so tiring. On Sunday, Jacek, Dominika and Ola went to Krzyż Jubileuszowy and Góra Szybowcowa. Karolina and I went to “Gruszka” and “Miłek” quarries. That day, the weather wasn’t good, so we saw nothing. Then we had to say goodbye to Ola and Dominik because they were going back home that day. That’s how our first week ended, we learned a lot about monitoring and honestly about everything from Roman, Grzegorz, Dariusz and Kamila. They helped us a lot and to be honest, they are not only great teachers but also funny and helpful.
The second week, we started with another monitoring session. Karolina and I went to Chojnik, Wały Cieplickie and Piastów. Jacek went to Sobiesz and Podzamcze. Despite the beautiful weather, we couldn’t find any butterflies in Wały Cieplickie, Piastów, Sobiesz and Podzamcze. Just as we needed to end the monitoring, I found one dead Parnassius apollo… right beside me. It was a female with sphragis and she had a number 298 on her wings.
Of course, our day couldn’t end without some adventure. On the way back from Chojnik to our car, we found sheep in trouble. The sheep was tangled in an electric fence, which we had to turn off and free her from. We also met new volunteers – Ola, Łucja and Magda. We went for monitoring until Wednesday with the interns – Julia and Justyna. For a moment we felt like teachers, because we tried to tell them everything about the butterfly, his biology, monitoring etc.
Thursday and Friday were days off for me and Karolina. On those days, we were able to rest and relax. Beside me, because I needed to defend my bachelor’s degree and I had a lot of problems on my way back to Jelenia Góra, because there was a problem with all trains to and from Wrocław. Luckily, my mum came to rescue me and drove me back to Jelenia Góra.
On Thursday, we also had the opportunity to learn a few things while catching bats. It was a great experience and we all had a lot of fun. On friday, Karolina and I went hiking. We did 16 km and also we were really lucky to see the blackgrouse on our way. It was shocking.
Saturday was our last day of monitoring, Karolina, Jacek and I went to “Gruszka” and “Miłek”, sadly we couldn’t find any butterflies. Magda, Łucja and Ola went to Bobrów, Sobiesz, Podzamcze and there were no butterflies. This last day was hard for us, because our volunteer time was coming to an end but we all had a lot of fun through all these days and it was such an amazing experience.
From July 22nd to 26th, 2024, the partners of LIFE Apollo2020 gathered in Saalfelden, Austria, for their annual meeting. This yearly event provides opportunity for all partners to engage in discussions, share updates, and collaborate on strategies to work towards the project’s goals. We had the pleasure to also welcome EU representatives Gustavo Becerra-Jurado from CINEA and Edyta Owadowska-Cornil from ELMEN EEIG, who shared their insights and assistence in regard to the project.
Day 1: Office day and Apollo habitat visit
The first day was dedicated to presentations and discussions. This “office day” allowed partners to discuss the projects’ progress and challenges. Meeting in person contributed to shared learning and collaborative problem-solving. As a refreshment break, we visited a local Apollo butterfly habitat (Stossengraben). The day concluded with a joint dinner.
Part of the mobile exhibitionMeeting roomHybrid meeting Stoissengraben
Day 2: Habitat visits in East Tyrol
On day 2, we visited the project habitats in East Tyrol, including Virgen, Hinterbichl, Leisach, and Mörtschach. The highlight of the day was witnessing Apollo butterflies flying in Hinterbichl. To see the butterflies flying is a great motivation for everyone to do even more to conserve the Apollo butterfly species. The journey back to Saalfelden was equally memorable, as we took the scenic high alpine Grossglockner Road. The good weather allowed some breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps along the way.
VirgenApollo in HinterbichlHinterbichlLeisachGrossglockner High Alpine RoadPasterze gletscher
Day 3: Habitat and breeding station visits and meeting conclusion
On the final day, we visited the habitats close to Saalfelden: Lofer and Fieberbrunn. In Lofer, we had the pleasure to watch a demonstration by dr. Leo Slotta-Bachmay from Naturschutzhunde and his dog, showing how trained dogs are used to search for and monitor caterpillars. The demonstration was very informative and inspiring, highlighting the many possibilities in which dogs can assist humans in reaching their goals. After the habitats, we visited the breeding station in Saalfelden, where Otto Feldner provided an in-depth look at the breeding process of Apollo butterflies. He has been breeding Apollo butterflies for more than 30 years and we could appreciate his dedication to reintroducing the species into its natural habitat.
LoferDemonstration NaturschutzhundeFieberbrunnBreeding stationBreeding stationBreeding station
We used the final closure meeting on day 3 to reflect on the insights gained and to outline the next steps for the project.
The team in Mörtschach
The 2024 LIFE Apollo2020 partner meeting in Saalfelden was a success, offering valuable opportunities for fruitful discussions, collaboration, and inspiration. With renewed energy, partners returned home, ready to continue their important work in preserving the Apollo butterfly.
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, the Czech partner JARO released 50 Parnassius apollo butterflies into the Krkonoše mountains! They set out to inspect the quality of the environment, which we have been preparing for them in cooperation with many partners for the third year as part of the LIFE Apollo2020 project.
David Číp from the International Conservation Group JARO told that the release of the Parnassius apollo into the wild was preceded by the modification of a selected and undisclosed location to suit the butterfly, which is at risk of extinction in the Czech Republic and abroad. The organizers of the project perceive this butterfly, which became extinct in the Czech Republic in 1935, as a symbol of the protection of mountain nature. In the 1980s, it was managed to return to Štramberk in northern Moravia, where a weak population still lives.
“Now, together with the KRNAP Administration, the Škoda Auto Foundation and other partners, we are trying to return him to Bohemia, where he last lived in the Krkonoše and Podkrkonoše about 100 years ago. We have been trying for the return of rare ash trees for the third year,” said David Číp. Last year, an attempt at the first test release of butterflies failed due to complications at the butterfly rescue station. “However, the breeding technology was modified, so this year the third generation hatched, which can finally go out,” said Číp.
Conservationists will observe whether the butterflies will thrive in the restored conditions of the Krkonoše nature. “The experts we work with believe that we have managed to restore the conditions for Parnassius apollo in the field to such an extent that it could be enough for the Apollos to stay in the place we are preparing for them after release,” said project coordinator Tereza Macečková from the Group JARO.
So far, conservationists have released only males, so that possible losses of difficult-to-bring individuals are as small as possible. “Females are the most valuable for further breeding. However, if the released males are kept, they start behaving naturally, looking for females that hatch only after the males in the wild, and they stay here for several days after release, the chances of their permanent settlement will be much greater,” said Číp.
According to him, next year it will make sense to release the females as well and try to move to the last final phase of the project, when the Apollos could start to reproduce in the wild. “At the moment, we are roughly half way there, although perhaps the hardest part is behind us,” said JARO Group butterfly breeder Miloš Andres. According to him, the breeding of rare species of butterflies is very demanding, even if it is “only” about rearing the eggs to the adult stage. The most demanding task, which takes several years, he identified as the preparation of the environment for the butterflies in combination with their release without the need for additional reinforcements from breeding.
Conservationists keep the butterflies secret instead of releasing them to prevent them from being caught by a collector. They wrote a number on the top of each butterfly’s wings. “It is both for the sake of records, but also for their protection. They are so worthless to potential collectors,” said Číp.
Last year, conservationists in the Krkonoše improved about a hectare of overgrown rocky terrain and already noticed the spread of rare species of flowering plants and insects, which occur sporadically in the Krkonoše due to lack of space. The project is also focused on the restoration of entire biotopes, taking care of Parnassius apollo helps to protect other sensitive species. “Hopefully the released males will give us hope that we are moving in the right direction and we will have the chance to meet this beautiful butterfly in the Krkonoše Mountains permanently,” added Radek Drahný, spokesman for the KRNAP Administration.
The practical part of the LIFE Apollo2020 international project to protect the Apollos, one of Europe’s most endangered butterflies, started in 2022 in several areas of Central Europe. The mission for his return to the Krkonoše Mountains is carried out by members of the JARO Group in cooperation with the Czech and Polish Krkonoše Mountains National Park, the Nature and Landscape Protection Agency and a number of other Czech and foreign organizations.
The mission for the return of the king of butterflies to the Krkonoše Mountains will be implemented from 2021 by members of the JARO Group in cooperation with the Administration of the Giant Mountains National Park, the Nature and Landscape Protection Agency, members of the Czech Entomological Society, employees of the Entomological Institute of the Biological Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic and partner organizations from Poland, Czechia and Austria.
On 17th of June 2024 – breaking news was announced- the EU Council adopted the Nature Restoration Law. This piece of news has a major meaning for all EU citizens and all species including pollinators
NRL has been sealed after the long process of negotiation
Nature Restoration Law, called shortly NRL, aims at the restoration of the EU’s land and sea ecosystems. Its goal is to reverse the severe decline of the EU’s nature where currently only 15 % of habitats are in good condition. NRL, for the first time in history, obliges states to put adequate measures in place to restore ecosystems – precisely at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, at least 60% by 2040, and at least 90% by 2050.
For the first time in history, legally binding targets aiming at ecosystem restoration will be introduced in the EU at this scale. The NRL was being prepared and negotiated for a very long time. It passed through many changes in the process to finally be voted in the EU Parliament in November 2023. Even though, the new regulation has been passed in the EU parliament, it was waiting to be adopted by the EU Council until now. Thanks to the change in vote from the side of Austria and Slovakia, the required majority has been obtained and Nature Restoration Law has been sealed.
Importance of the NRL for Parnassius apollo and all other pollinators.
This law will play a major role in the restoration of all ecosystems and support all species. Here few aspects of how it will impact wild pollinators:
-Major threats for pollinators, such as fragmentation of habitats and low biodiversity in agricultural land areas will be now addressed systemically and real measures will have to be introduced by states to prevent and reverse these processes.
-States will need to put measures in place to reverse the declining trend of pollinators by 2030.
-States will need to plan and submit national restoration plans to the EU Commission, showing how they will deliver on the targets.
-As states will need to measure the accomplishment of the targets, data about pollinators can become a very important source of information for evaluation for them.
-The Grassland Butterfly Index will be optional to measure the biodiversity enhancement in farmland areas, which gives importance to pollinators as indicators of biodiversity.
Parnassius apollo in its historical habitat, Natura 2000 area. Poland. Photo by:Julia Hava,
What can we contribute as one of LIFE’s projects
There are different ways in which LIFE projects can contribute to a larger perspective. Through providing data, developing and communicating best practices for conservation, and sharing experiences built through cooperation with a very diverse stakeholder network.
Data on pollinators, so on meadows and grasslands are important to monitor conditions in the proximity of and on agricultural land. LIFE projects build best practices – for example on grazing to enhance the biodiversity of grassland, and need to adjust agro-environmental schemes for extensive grazing for these solutions to become reliable sources of income for farmers and therefore more popular solutions.
Grazing for conservation in Tyrol, Austria
As part of the LIFE Apollo2020 project, we work to improve conditions in grassland habitats and cooperate with multiple stakeholders: public and private, including forestry, farmers, owners of quarries and local citizens. We collaborate with all of them to build a network of habitats for the species. We also spread knowledge on the value of having biodiverse ecosystems and the many advantages of having diverse species as neighbours.
We collect the best practices on grasslands and Apollo conservation. In collaboration with all these stakeholders, we navigate challenges and look for solutions which can benefit local communities and different species. Without dialogue with all these stakeholders, our conservation actions would not have a chance to last. We will be happy to contribute our experiences and knowledge to help reverse the fragmentation of habitats, which is a serious threat to so many species.
The landscape mosaic with diverse connected natural habitats is what many species miss to be able to choose the most suitable spot for their activities – whether to hide from the heat, escape the flood or just feed. Connected habitats also ensure the possibility for migration of the species to find new locations/partners. Nature Restoration Law will be a very important step to be able to recreate secure and healthy conditions for different species to live, including us – citizens.
Knowledge of habitats lies on many levels, including local knowledge. Those working on the LIFE projects have a chance to collect very diverse experiences and have a significant role to play as a messenger between local, scientific, national and international levels. As one of LIFE projects – we are here to contribute in this messenger role. We encourage everyone to document and exchange knowledge.
We are restoring the splendour of Kruczy Kamień nature reserve – the most important place for the Apollo butterfly in the Polish Sudetes
Kruczy Kamień is an inanimate nature reserve. It was established in 1954 and currently has an area of 12.61 ha. It covers western and south-western slopes of Krucza Skała (681 m above sea level) located in the Krucza Valley, in the Stone Mountains. The subject of the reserve’s protection is an interesting form of trachyte intrusion (a variety of porphyry of volcanic origin) in the sedimentary rocks of the Rotliegend. The area is made up of steep slopes with heights reaching 30 metres in places. Numerous rock formations occur here, and in many places extensive fields of rock rubble are formed as a result of the crumbling of the porphyry rock.
Most of the reserve is covered with artificially planted spruce forest. The reminder is covered mainly by rocky, xerothermic, pioneer and meadow vegetation. Among the more important habitats recorded in the reserve are ecosystems of Pontic-Pannonian character, which form a mosaic with xerothermic and rocky grasslands. At the foot of the escarpment there are rare – Subcontinental Peri-Pannonian shrubby habitats Rhamno-Prunetea thickets with numerous patches of Cotoneaster integerrimus (one of the largest in the Sudetes) and herbaceous plants. The shrubs are also accompanied by Festuco-Stipion Pannonic grasslands, with Sedum species, important for the Apollo butterfly Parnassius apollo. Habitats of ephemeral character have developed on the rock rubble layer and in rock crevices. This is the thermophilic pioneer vegetation of the rock shelves of the Alysso-Sedion association classified as Sempervivetum soboliferi complex. This habitat type is rich in the succulent species Jovibarba sobolifera, Sedum acre, Sedum maximum and Sedum album (artificially introduced). The latter two species provide a food source for the caterpillars of the Apollo butterfly. These ecosystems undergo gradual succession, becoming overgrown with taller vegetation, mainly grasses and perennials and then shrubs and trees. At the foot of the reserve there are habitats rich in nectariferous plants: patches of xerothermic grassland and herbaceous vegetation, and further on, lush and dense meadow vegetation composed largely of Centaurea and Cirsium species.
Rare plant species, including those protected by law in Poland, include: the endemic morphological form of Viola porphyrea, Cotoneaster integerrimus, Festuca pallens, Lilium martagon, Digitalis grandiflora, Melampyrum sylvaticum, Antennaria dioica and Asplenium septentrionale.
A rich insect fauna, especially butterflies, was found in the reserve. However, the most important has always been the local subspecies of the Apollo butterfly Parnassius apollo silesianus, which occurs here. This butterfly became extinct at the beginning of the 20th century, and the Krucze Mountains area was one of the last places of its occurrence in Lower Silesia. The first successful attempt to reintroduce the species in the reserve was made as early as the 1990s, and the butterflies persisted in the site for more than 10 years. Reintroduction continued in the 21st century, when breeding began as part of a project by the Fundacja Ekorozwoju, the Karkonosze National Park and the Stołowe Mountains National Park, which now continues under the Apollo2020 project. The habitat itself has also been cared for. Unfortunately, years have passed since the last conservation measures in the reserve. The sunny slopes have again become overgrown with shrubs and tree undergrowth. The thermophilic habitats have been shaded and the landslides have started to lose their dynamic character.
This winter, Klub Przyrodników carried out conservation measures in the reserve that will help to preserve and, in places, restore its peculiar charm. An area of approximately 1.7 hectares was cleared of shrubs (with the exception of Cotoneaster integerrimus), as well as tree undergrowth, including some larger specimens, the seeds of which are spreading along the slopes of Krucze Kamień reinforcing the succession process. Our further aim is to maintain the effects of these activities and stop the regrowth of felled shrubs and trees by grazing goats.
In spring, Apollo caterpillars can be seen in the reserve, which have hatched from the eggs laid by butterflies last year, and every summer, the spectacle of philutically flying Apollo butterfly plays out before our eyes on the slopes of the reserve and in the meadow at its foot. Our dream is to establish a permanent population of the species in the reserve, which will only need our help to cut the bushes.
The snow has started to melt in the Alps, which means that the outdoor work season for the Apollo butterfly in Austrian habitats could officially begin. With the great help of volunteers, the Austrian team (EWS) has started the crucial task of debushing in two Apollo habitats – Lofer, Salzburg, and Fieberbrunn, Tyrol.
With warm and sunny weather on our side, we focused on clearing away overgrown bushes and trees to uncover the rocky slopes beneath. These rocky slopes are vital for the survival of Apollo caterpillars, as they provide the perfect environment for the caterpillars to thrive. The exposed slopes are ideal for the growth of Sedum plants, which are the main food source for the caterpillars. Keeping these areas free of excessive bush growth is important to maintaining a suitable habitat for the caterpillars.
In addition to our debushing efforts, we planted various Sedum species (Sedum sexangulare and Sedum album) to ensure the caterpillars have plenty of food. This step is needed for helping the caterpillars grow into healthy pupae and eventually transform into imagines. To support the adult butterflies, we also sowed seeds of nectar-producing plants, ensuring that there will be nectar sources available when the butterflies emerge.
The highlight of the day was discovering numerous Apollo caterpillars within the habitat. In Lofer, Salzburg. We saw them actively crawling and feeding on the Sedum plants, which was an exciting confirmation that our conservation measures are already paying off.
During our work, we had the pleasure of meeting a group of children and their teacher. The kids were eager to learn about the Parnassius apollo butterflies, their feeding plants, and our conservation efforts. Their enthusiasm and curiosity has again assured us how important is to involve and educate also the younger generation about environmental conservation.
Looking ahead, we are excited for the rest of the spring and summer seasons. We will continue our efforts to maintain and improve the habitats, ensuring that the Apollo butterflies have a thriving environment.
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