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29 July 2008
What is possibly the biggest likeness ever of a butterfly is proving a hit with families from Cheshire and the surrounding area
What looks from the sky like a massive butterfly is in fact a mega maze, covering the equivalent of six football fields.
It is made of maize and is part of celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the charity Butterfly Conservation.
The Cheshire & Peak District branch of Butterfly Conservation teamed up with Udder Farm at Congleton to create the maze, which replicates the charity’s butterfly logo.
Butterfly Conservation was established in 1968 after amateur naturalists realised the disastrous affect the introduction of intensive agriculture was having on butterfly numbers. British butterfly numbers continue to decline dramatically.
George Martin from Butterfly Conservation’s Cheshire & Peak District Branch said: “Farmland is the main habitat for over three-quarters of British butterflies. There are a number of ways farmers can help butterflies to thrive in the countryside. Udder Farm is a great example of landowners making the link and supporting our work to conserve threatened species.”
Visitors to the maze can take part in a quiz trail all about butterflies and moths. The questions, hidden within the maze, are pitched at two levels to make it suitable for all ages. The maze also contains two butterfly gardens, where people taking a break from trying to find their way out will often be able to see butterflies.
Construction of the maze began in April, when the maize crop was planted and the paths mapped out using GPS technology.At the end of the season the maize will be harvested to provide winter feed for the cows on the farm.
Vicki Tripney, from the Udder Farm Company said: “We were delighted when Butterfly Conservation asked us to help them celebrate their anniversary. Butterflies are emblematic of the beautiful British countryside.
It is worrying to hear that they are in decline and we want to do our bit to save them for future generations to enjoy. A visit to Udder Farm gives all the family a chance to have fun in the fresh air and to learn more about farming and butterflies.”
To find out more about Butterfly Conservation visit www.butterfly-conservation.org.uk
Udder Farm is a great day out for all the family. For more information about the maze and other attractions at the farm go to: www.udderfarm.co.uk