Rare brown hairstreak butterflies rebounded in south-west Wales after landowners reduced annual hedge flailing.
Volunteers found more than 300 eggs near Llandeilo, marking record counts after years of decline.
The butterflies lay eggs on blackthorn, which flailing often destroys during autumn cutting.
Butterfly Conservation persuaded landowners to rotate hedge cutting every two to three years.
Egg counts rose by 50% along the A40 after gentler management and new blackthorn planting.
Nearby flailed hedges saw egg numbers collapse.
Conservationists say less frequent cutting could save the species and help wider wildlife recovery.
Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 10 years of experience covering Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Journalism from the University of Florida. Throughout his career, he has contributed to outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Reuters. Known for his clear reporting and in-depth analysis, Andrew delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and international developments.
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