Aberdeenshire Teenager Joins Butterfly Conservation’s Youth Panel

Harris McCutcheon, a 17-year-old from Torphins, Aberdeenshire, has been selected to represent Scotland on a youth panel dedicated to butterflies and moths. He is the youngest among the 10 members of this newly formed panel, established by the national charity Butterfly Conservation. The panel’s objective is to motivate a new generation of individuals to become conservationists and campaigners. Harris, who studies zoology at the University of Glasgow, stated his “obsession” with butterflies. The other nine inaugural members of the panel originate from various regions across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Harris commented: “My favourite species I have seen is the elephant hawkmoth, and one day I would love to see a black-veined white.“I think that the best way to learn about an interest, like butterflies, is to get involved and meet people. “Butterfly Conservation is a brilliant way to get into butterflies and moths and it’s great fun.” Kate Merry, Butterfly Conservation’s head of engagement, remarked: “We are seeing the impacts of climate change at a scary rate right now, and we know that the next generation, today’s young people, will be hugely affected.“That’s why we’re thrilled to have appointed our first-ever youth panel, and to give young voices a platform in the world of conservation.”Their passion for nature is inspiring, and we can’t wait to see the positive, fresh ideas they’ll bring to the table.” Other members include Leanna Fernandez, 25, who resides in Bristol but was raised in Aberdeenshire, and Nancy Levine, 19, from Yorkshire, currently based in Stirling. The panel is scheduled to convene a minimum of once per month, contributing to the organization and execution of events aimed at increasing youth participation in conservation efforts. Members of the current panel will serve for a minimum of one year, with the possibility of extending their tenure for an additional year. Following this period, Butterfly Conservation plans to invite applications for new members. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.