Because of rising numbers of tourists, it was becoming more and more difficult for the moths to remain immobile under the leaf cover, thereby conserving their much-needed energy while protecting themselves from the sun. As a result, many died of exhaustion before mating, or never made it back to the breeding ground. From year to year, the population gradually declined.

Nowehere else in the world is the «panaxia» species of moth found in such large numbers as in the so-called Valley of Butterflies, near the village of Theologos in the north-west of the island of Rhodes. In August, millions of these tiny creatures cluster on leaves, tree-trunks and boulders. The moths are one of Rhodes main tourist attractions. However, rising numbers of tourists threatened the existence of the moth population.

Nature conservation organisations, scientists and the local and national authorities joined together to put in place a rescue plan with aid from the ENVIREG Community programme.

The first priority was to prevent the valley from drying out, which was achieved by installing reservoirs to replenish the water whenever necessary. Small reserves of water increase the surface area for evaporation and thus raise the humidity level. Throughout the valley, the same water feeds a system to combat forest fires.

An especially rich tree nursery for the study of flora also makes it possible to replace trees when the need arises. The paths providing access to the valley have been redesigned to regulate the flow of visitors, who are now given practical information to help preserve the valley.

In spite of a modest budget, the results of the project have been immense in that they have restored the moth population. The achievement is also a source of pride to the local population and has helped them to preserve their source of revenue.

The project has resulted in the creation of four jobs and the preservation of several others. Plans are now underway to turn part of the nearby ancient monastery of St. John into a natural history museum.

Total cost 375 000 Euros
EU contribution 281 250 Euros

Ministry of the National Economy
Phone: +30 210 333 2000
press@mnec.gr

01/01/2000

case

Urban Policy

Urban environment, Economy knowledge & employment