Over 17 Million Insects Annually Navigate a Mere 30-Meter Mountain Pass Between France and Spain

By: Govind Tekale By: Govind Tekale

Every autumn, a staggering 17 million insects conquer a mere 30-meter gap in the Pyrenees, marking a natural spectacle.

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Billions of tiny travelers, from hoverflies to dragonflies, transform the Bujaruelo Pass into a bustling migratory route.

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Researchers from the University of Exeter have documented this phenomenon, unveiling the hidden intricacies of insect life.

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The first sighting occurred over 70 years ago, when ornithologists witnessed an unprecedented fly migration through these mountains.

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Recent studies confirm: the migration persists, with insects traveling from northern Europe to southern destinations.

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Video cameras and interception traps capture the journey, revealing over 3,000 insects per meter per minute on peak days.

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Flies dominate the passage, making up 90% of the travelers, while other known migrators like butterflies represent a mere fraction.

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These migratory insects play crucial roles from pollination to pest control, enhancing ecosystems across borders.

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Despite challenges from climate change and habitat loss, the resilience of these insects offers hope for their future protection.

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