SCIENTISTS have identified more signs of global warming - the region's butterflies.

Researchers have discovered species that normally thrive in the region are being forced to seek new habitats further north and at higher altitudes.

Conservationists fear that the long-term effects could be disastrous when they have nowhere else to go.

They say the consequences could be potentially devastating for the long-term survival of some species, such as the large heath and northern brown Argus, which are already under threat from large-scale habitat destruction.

The researchers from Butterfly Conservation, and the universities of York, Durham, Leeds and the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, found that northern butterflies which prefer a cooler climate are being forced to move as temperatures rise.

And with temperatures rising further, they are predicted to decline dramatically as they disappear from the southern margins of their ranges, but have little opportunity to expand northwards.

Even southern butterflies are at risk because of the problem. Although they have the potential to expand northwards, the continuing destruction and fragmentation of their habitats means they are unlikely to be able to colonise new territory.

Richard Fox, of Butterfly Conservation, said: "These anticipated declines are of enormous concern, and this research highlights the need for a new landscape approach to conservation through the protection and recreation of wildlife habitats throughout the countryside."

Dr Jane Hill, of York University, said: "This research has far-reaching implications, and the outlook for butterflies and other wildlife is gloomy."