Besides climate change, what other human activities impact butterfly ranges?

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Other Human Activities Impacting Butterfly Ranges

Nearly 80 per cent of reported shifts in butterfly geographic ranges are linked to climate change and extreme weather events. However, a comprehensive study assessing over 1,700 species across 105 countries and territories highlights that several other human-driven activities also significantly impact where butterflies are found. These factors contribute to changes in their habitats and distributions globally.
Land Use Changes and Agriculture

Changes in land use, particularly those associated with intensive agriculture, play a notable role in altering butterfly ranges. These practices can lead to the simplification of landscapes, reducing the diversity of host plants and nectar sources that butterflies depend on. The expansion of agricultural areas often results in the fragmentation of existing natural habitats, isolating butterfly populations.
Urbanisation and Habitat Fragmentation

Urbanisation is another significant human activity affecting butterfly distributions. As urban areas expand, natural landscapes are converted into built environments, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. This fragmentation creates smaller, disconnected patches of suitable habitat, making it more difficult for butterflies to move between areas, find mates, and access resources necessary for their survival and reproduction.
Introduction of Invasive Species

The introduction of invasive species, often facilitated by human activities, also poses a threat to native butterfly populations. Invasive plants can outcompete native host plants, reducing the food available for butterfly larvae. Furthermore, invasive insects or predators can directly prey on butterflies or their host plants, further disrupting ecological balances and impacting butterfly ranges.

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Besides climate change, what other human activities impact butterfly ranges?

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