This project assessed the responses of UK bird and butterfly populations to a number of winter cold and summer drought events between 1981 and 2010. Key results are summarised by:
- Winter cold sensitivity
- Drought sensitivity
- Population recovery
- Landscape effects on species responses
- Projected changes
Understanding the factors that modify the responses of different species to climate change will support the development of adaptation measures to reduce vulnerability to extreme events, including through our designation strategy and agri-environment schemes. We also hope that the results will inform the work partnerships working at a landscape scale, such as Nature Improvement Areas. This project will therefore be followed up with work to integrate this new knowledge into our practical conservation work and advice, including through future versions of the Natural England Climate Change Adaptation Manual.