News dated
In 2026, surveys commissioned by the Val Sesia protected areas recorded a male Phengaris arion, known as the large blue butterfly, in Val Vogna. The park says in a report released on October 15 that this is the first record of the species for the Natura 2000 site surveyed. One sighting cannot establish the size of the local population. [1][2][3]
In Monte Fenera park, researchers also monitor Coenonympha oedippus, a butterfly found near Cavallirio in 2023: they counted 65 along a survey route in 2026. In late April a Morimus asper beetle was also observed in the park, where it had not been officially recorded. These are local records, not species new to science. [1][2]
The bright side
The surveys give the park new information to guide further research and habitat protection. [1][2][3]
One idea, in simple words
In 2026, a nature survey in Val Vogna spotted a male Phengaris arion, a butterfly known as the large blue. The park says this is the first record of the species in the Natura 2000 site surveyed. A Natura 2000 site is an area recognised for nature protection. Seeing a single butterfly cannot tell us how many live in the whole place. [1][2][3]
Near Cavallirio, researchers also follow another butterfly, Coenonympha oedippus, first found there in 2023. In 2026 they counted 65 along one survey route: that is not a complete count of the population. Imagine watching a meadow while walking along the same path each time: this example helps explain the method. A Morimus asper beetle was also observed in Monte Fenera park. [1][2]
A little discovery to keep
What did you discover?
Straight from the source.
- Tre specie di invertebrati, nuove scoperte nelle Aree protette della Valsesia Aree protette della Valsesia · No publication date provided
- Tre specie di invertebrati scoperte nelle Aree protette della Valsesia ANSA · 15 Oct 2026
- Natura 2000 Biogeographical Regions Commissione europea · No publication date provided
Original reporting summaries prepared with AI assistance and accessible sources. Our editorial method.
