Vanilla surprise

A Bodmin orchid spotter has discovered a rare specimen that has been in decline for more than a century.

The greater butterfly orchid has greenish white-coloured flowers and a vanilla scent that becomes more perfumed at night to attract moths. It was spotted around Bodmin Beacon.

Cornwall Council is delighted and has said it would work to ensure the flower would thrive, according to the press.

In recent years, conservation has been carried out by Bodmin Town and Cornwall Council, who manage the site together.

While so many of Britain's orchids are threatened, it seems good land management practices are critical to reversing this trend.

Wildlife fans will be pleased to note that other rare species in the area include snipe and climbing corydalis.

PK

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