Sunny Side Up: A Monthly Dose of Happy News – Edition 2
Welcome to our Sunny Side Up roundup for July! We’re bringing you the brightest environmental and wildlife stories from across the UK because sometimes, we all need a little reminder that nature is thriving in surprising ways.
From rare bats to even rarer butterflies, July has seen the re-introduction of some amazing species in the UK. Find out more below.
Photograph: Knepp/Neil Hulme
Purple Emperor butterfly revival at Knepp Estate, West Sussex 🦋
This July, Knepp Estate in West Sussex reported its highest-ever count of 283 rare purple emperor butterflies in a single day! Thanks to years of dedicated rewilding, Knepp has become a haven for insects and pollinators, helping to reverse the decline of these beautiful creatures.
Photograph: Daniel Hargreaves
Rare bats making a comeback in Kent & Sussex 🦇
For the first time in nearly 40 years, grey long-eared bats have been recorded in Kent! This rare species’ return signals that local conservation and habitat restoration efforts are paying off. Every new sighting brings hope for the UK’s threatened bat populations.
Cranes return to Scotland after 500 years 🐦
In a heartwarming twist of nature’s resilience, Eurasian cranes are nesting again in Scotland, having been absent for over five centuries. Small breeding groups are now establishing in Aberdeenshire, giving conservationists hope that these elegant birds will soon become a regular sight in UK skies.
Photograph: Savo Ilic/Alamy
Waterway restoration incentives for farmers in England💧
A positive policy shift in July means that farmers in England will receive new payments for reducing water pollution caused by fertilizers and animal waste. This Sustainable Farming Incentive will not only protect rivers and lakes but also boost wildlife habitats along our waterways.
Until next time…
From the skies of Sussex to the wetlands of Scotland and the rivers winding through our farmlands, nature is thriving with a little help from humans. July’s stories show us that dedication to conservation and smart environmental policies really work and that’s something worth celebrating!
Which of these stories brightened your day the most? Let us know!
Warm wishes,
The Ecoegg Team 💛