Fighting the Dry: Birdwing Butterfly Vines Battle Through Tough Spring Season

Project Update – Spring 2025

Hot, Dry Spring = Extra Watering Demands

Spring 2025 has proven harsher than anticipated, with above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall across both the Wolffdene and Narang Quarry project sites. While the planted birdwing butterfly vines have shown good resilience overall, the dry conditions have placed stress on the young plants, particularly those in more exposed habitat. To bridge the gap until consistent rains return, the project team has implemented manual watering during this dry spell. These extra visits have been critical in maintaining vine health and preventing further mortality.

Review Team Visit & Expert Feedback

In late September, we were pleased to host a visit from two Quarry Life Award jury members. The site visits provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the Richmond birdwing butterfly recovery project in action and demonstrate how the strong link between conservation, quarry operations, and a collaborative team approach can yield real benefits for threatened species recovery. The visit highlighted the value of industry–NGO partnerships and underscored how collaboration can drive continuous improvement and strengthen biodiversity outcomes.

Looking Forward

We’ll continue manual watering through the driest months until the seasonal rains return. We remain grateful for the ongoing support from Heidelberg Materials, the on-site quarry managers, and ecological contractors who make this great project possible. Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient future for the Richmond birdwing butterfly.