This butterfly is referred as the most endangered butterfly in Europe by
IUCN. This species occurs in one location only, near Pletvar in the FYR of
Macedonia. The total distribution area is less than 1.5 km². The
population size is possibly below 10,000 specimens in bad years. The
population is in decline because of habitat destruction by quarrying.
This species is therefore considered as Critically Endangered at the
European level.
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Macedonian Grayling - Pseudohazara cingovskii
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The major treat of this beautiful butterfly
This is a European endemic, restricted to one location globally. The
area of habitat for the species is shrinking due to active quarries.
Without any intervention the species is critically threatened with
extinction.
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| Preserved specimen for studying |
Conservation Actions
The most urgent action is the protection of the remaining habitat
from further destruction by quarrying. Research is also needed on the
ecology and habitat requirements of the species to ensure that a proper
management plan can be drawn up to prevent the species from becoming
extinct. The effects of the management should be monitored closely by
Butterfly Monitoring Schemes.
