Ten areas of Scotland are identified as frontlines in the fight to save rare insects from extinction.



Ten "survival zones" are key to saving rare butterfly species from becoming extinct, according to Butterfly Conservation Scotland (BCS).

The areas identified include Highland Perthshire, Lochaber, North Argyll, Solway and Upper Deeside.

BCS has previously warned that climate change threatens some species.

It said Scotland had become a refuge for butterflies in decline in England and careful management of the zones could safeguard their future.

BCS director, Paul Kirkland, said changes to farming and forestry practices have affected habitats.

He said: "Butterfly Conservation Scotland has identified these 10 Butterfly Survival Zones where we will be focusing our new conservation strategy to re-connect isolated colonies to secure their future.

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