Forest Disturbances Threatening Cypripedium calceolus Populations Can Improve Its Habitat Conditions

Inappropriate forest management activities, above all clear-cutting, are recognized as the major threats to an iconic orchid species—the lady’s slipper (Cypripedium calceolus), flagship species of nature protection in Europe. Although clear-cutting protected species’ localities is strongly regulated many European countries, salvage logging allowed some circumstances (e.g., following windstorms, and insect outbreaks) can threaten C. calceolus populations. In this paper, we review a database recently registered populations Czech Republic study historical maps, better understand history local habitat conditions assess by bark beetle outbreaks. We found that about one-third have suffered coniferous or mixed tree plantations with high proportion spruce trees, which forests risk infestation. measures distinguish efforts areas known result no damage population and, at times, improve for species. Thus, beetle—usually understood enemy—can be transformed into savior if smart will replace panic logging.