indicator species

Surveys of butterflies are important for conservation because they are known as indicator species, meaning rises and falls in their populations can predict the health of the wider ecosystem.

“Butterflies are a key indicator species; when they are in trouble we know that the wider environment is in trouble too,” he said.

Polar bears are what is known as an indicator species, meaning they predict the health and viability of the broader Arctic ecosystem.

“The science shows that if you have roughly 70% natives, you’re going to be able to support a healthy bird population, and they’re the key indicator species for environmental health,” she said.

The birds are an “indicator species,” serving as something of a canary in a coal mine.