14/02/2024
Congratulations to Moths and Butterflies with NZ Red Admiral and to Friends of Flora
Congratulations to Moths and Butterflies NZ and Kahukura NZ Red Admiral which has been announced Bug of the Year 2024.
Thank you to everyone who voted for Mt Arthur Giant Wētā - more than 1700 people! That's impressive for a nocturnal beasty that no-one had ever heard of and many were scared of. It’s a clear message that people value our critically threatened alpine biodiversity. And coming runner up to a widespread, flash butterfly means that Tibio is arguably the real winner!
Although FOF campaigned for Tibio, we're proud that the Flora is home to 6 of the top voted 8 Bugs.
A massive thanks to everyone involved in the campaign – it’s been a lot of work, and a lot of fun. Thanks also to the organisers at the Entomological society of NZ for raising the profile of our unique invertebrate fauna.
Happy Valentines Day aka Bug of the Year Day!
,