The City of Munich described the finding as “sensational,” crediting the ongoing biodiversity monitoring project for making it possible.
Three Rare Day Butterfly Species Found Again in Hartelholz – Green Hairstreak Seen for the First Time Since 2009
The highlight of the rediscovery is the Green Hairstreak – the only native day butterfly species with a greenish underside. According to city authorities, this species was last observed in 2009 in the Langwieder Heide. During this year’s survey, researchers were able to detect this elusive butterfly at four different sites within Hartelholz, particularly along wide trail edges and in open forest areas.
In addition, the Brown Hairstreak, another member of the same butterfly family, was also found. This species favors large clearings with young, sun-exposed oak trees and lays its eggs almost exclusively on oaks that are no older than five years. “This critically endangered species, thought to be lost since 2021, was rediscovered at one of the monitored locations,” the city’s statement reported.
The third major discovery was made by Oliver Böck, Munich’s resident butterfly expert. He observed the Silver-washed Fritillary – another endangered day butterfly species – in open clearings and along wide trail shoulders.
Important Contribution to Species Conservation in Munich – Hartelholz as a Biodiversity Hotspot
The City of Munich views these findings as a significant success of its biodiversity monitoring program and as proof of the ecological importance of the Hartelholz nature reserve. “These species thrive in open, sunlit woodlands – habitats that are increasingly rare in today’s cultivated landscapes,” environmental specialists from the city explained.
Christine Kugler, Munich’s Commissioner for Climate and Environmental Protection, expressed her delight: “The fact that these rare butterfly species have once again been confirmed in the city area is further evidence of how unique Munich’s biodiversity is.” She emphasized the importance of preserving and actively supporting these habitats in close cooperation with the Bavarian State Forests.
What Is the City of Munich’s Biodiversity Monitoring Program?
Since 2021, the City of Munich has operated its own biodiversity monitoring program, which documents and observes the variety of animal and plant species within the urban area. The aim is to preserve Munich’s natural habitats, detect changes in species composition at an early stage, and develop targeted conservation strategies.
Various ecosystems are regularly surveyed, including forests, bodies of water, and parks. The resulting data serve as a scientific foundation for environmental and conservation planning. This approach is intended to ensure that biological diversity is preserved for future generations.
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