The influence of wild boar (Sus scrofa) on microhabitat quality for the endangered butterfly Pyrgus malvae in the Netherlands

摘要: The decline of open habitats in Europe, such as semi-natural grasslands and heathlands, has caused a general biodiversity, which been well documented for butterflies. Current conservation practices often involve grazing by domestic livestock to maintain suitable butterfly habitats. extent wild ungulates may play similar role remains largely unknown. Through their rooting activity, boar could be effective reduce grass encroachment restore pioneer microhabitats that are vital many grassland insects temperate climates. Here, we assessed the microhabitat requirements Pyrgus malvae, an endangered heathland Netherlands, with special attention influence rooting. To date, oviposition site selection this species concentrated on calcareous grasslands, whereas also include heathlands. Overall, larval occupancy was higher warm, sparsely vegetated microhabitats, supports earlier findings. In heathland, positively affected bryophyte litter cover. heath-grassland mosaic, influenced cover, but addition low cover increased favouring host plants. grassland, only plant determined quality. Across all habitats, occupied were characterized lower vegetation average daytime temperatures than unoccupied microhabitats. We discovered important reducing shallow patches, thereby increasing availability. Hence, have added value maintaining restoring P. malvae livestock.