Story perspectives

Pine Hoverfly Population Surpasses Humans in Cairngorms

4/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The pine hoverfly population in Cairngorms National Park, UK, has reached about 30,000, surpassing the local human population.
A captive breeding program began in 2018.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) led the effort, with local landowners and Rare Invertebrates in the Cairngorms project.
Despite the recovery, the species remains critically endangered and the initiative is supported by NatureScot and the Scottish government's Nature Restoration Fund.

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Story summary

The pine hoverfly population in Cairngorms National Park, UK, has reached about 30,000, surpassing the local human population.
A captive breeding program began in 2018.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) led the effort, with local landowners and Rare Invertebrates in the Cairngorms project.
Despite the recovery, the species remains critically endangered and the initiative is supported by NatureScot and the Scottish government's Nature Restoration Fund.