At least 30 insect species (and 14 fungi species) are entirely reliant on Ragwort, and about a third of the insects are scarce or rare. Ragwort is also a critically important nectar source for hundreds of species of butterflies, bees, moths, flies and other invertebrates, helping to maintain what remains of their much declined populations in the UK countryside. In some instances the presence of Ragwort may be the only source of nectar for a Biodiversity Action Plan species. A number of look-alike plants also support rare and endangered species such as the Tansy beetle (Chrysolina graminis).
Sites managed for reptiles frequently support ragwort. Ragwort is a very useful plant for invertebrates, upon which reptiles such as viviparous lizard depend. However, adjacent landowners, particularly those with stock, can be quite insistent that the ragwort is pulled. It is important that any control measures put in place are not over-zealous resulting in the elimination of ragwort.
Follow the link to Buglife's website to learn more about The Ragwort Control Bill and associated Code of Practice.