The UK is set for a spectacular summer of butterflies – and everyone is invited to take part!
Leading wildlife charity, Butterfly Conservation, is calling on the public to prepare for a bumper summer of butterflies. This year, alongside its hugely popular Big Butterfly Count, the charity is launching something brand new – a vote to discover Britain’s Favourite Butterfly!
Famous for its annual Big Butterfly Count, in which tens of thousands of people spend 15 minutes counting butterflies, Butterfly Conservation is adding an exciting new milestone to the 2026 summer season as it sets out to discover which of the UK’s butterfly species takes the top spot in the nation’s hearts.
The call to action follows scientific evidence that proves counting butterflies boosts how connected people feel to nature and how motivated they are to protect it. Now the charity is encouraging people to vote for their favourite species, then head outside during Big Butterfly Count and see what they can spot this summer.
Kate Merry, Head of Engagement at Butterfly Conservation, said: “Over the last 16 years, more than 1.35 million Counts have been done by hundreds of thousands of people across the UK, spotting almost 13.8 million butterflies and helping us with our vital science and conservation activities.
“This year, we can’t wait to celebrate a bumper summer of butterflies by holding the first-ever vote to discover Britain’s Favourite Butterfly, before welcoming back the 17th annual Big Butterfly Count.
“Will the nation’s favourite species go on to reign supreme in the Count? Save the dates in your diaries to take part and help us find out!”
Britain’s Favourite Butterfly – Friday 15 May – Sunday 7 June
Britain’s Favourite Butterfly marks the first-time UK residents will be invited to champion their most-loved species.
Will the colourful Peacock take the crown? Or how about the understated Small White? Maybe it will be annual visitor the Painted Lady, or hedgerow fan the Gatekeeper.
The highly coveted title is up for grabs. The nation will decide…
Big Butterfly Count – Friday 17 July – Sunday 9 August
The 17th annual Big Butterfly Count is back and better than ever. Following hot on the heels of the first-ever vote to find Britain’s Favourite Butterfly, keen citizen scientists are encouraged to get out for the Count and see what they can spot.
Will the nation’s favourite species reign supreme in this year’s Count? Or will it have to share the summer top spot with another?
The vote to find Britain’s Favourite Butterfly will take place from Friday 15 May – Sunday 7 June, followed by Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count from Friday 17 July – Sunday 9 August.
Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count reveals worrying results of decades of decline
The results of Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count are in, and while the numbers are a vast improvement on 2024’s record lows, the charity has warned that urgent measures are still needed to reverse long-term decline.
The sunniest spring and hottest summer ever recorded in the UK provided good weather conditions for butterflies after 2024’s record-breaking lows. However, the results from the Big Butterfly Count show that it was definitely not a bumper summer for our beleaguered butterflies.
Between July 18 and August 10, over 125,000 citizen scientists got involved in Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count – more than ever before – and recorded 1.7 million butterflies and moths, with the top five species being Large White, Small White, Gatekeeper, Red Admiral and Meadow Brown.
On average, participants recorded 10.3 butterflies during each 15-minute count. While a marked improvement on last summer’s record low of just 7, it is only broadly average by modern standards, and has done little to reverse longer-term declines.
In Scotland, 6,286 people joined the count compared to 3,587 last year, and counted 71,988 butterflies and moths in the three-week period. On average the number of butterflies recorded per count was 9. The most-seen species in Scotland were the Small White (17,140), Large White (14,065), Red Admiral (11,459), Peacock (10,337) and Green-veined White (5,032).
Butterflies need two things to thrive: good weather and a healthy environment.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said:“We may feel like we’ve seen lots of butterflies this summer, but that’s only because last year was so awful.
“Last summer’s results were the lowest we’ve seen and a stark warning that many of our common butterfly species are facing significant pressure from challenges linked to habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use.
“Whilst we’ve seen noticeably more butterflies during 2025’s Big Butterfly Count, the figures suggest it’s actually been a pretty average year for them by modern standards.
“The 15-year Big Butterfly Count trends show that more than twice as many widespread species have declined significantly than have increased. And, while most species had a better than average summer, one-third of species fared poorly even in the generally beneficial weather.
“There remains a need for us to take urgent action to support our butterfly populations, including by improving the environment in which they live, restoring habitats and reducing pesticide use. Until we do these things we are unlikely to see a great recovery in butterfly numbers, regardless of how much the sun shines.”
Winners and losers
Some species did show marked increases this summer. The Large White and Small White both recorded their best ever Big Butterfly Count result.
Meanwhile the Small Tortoiseshell, which had its worst Big Butterfly Count result on record in 2024, showed some improvement but still recorded a below average year and has declined by 60% since 2011.
The Jersey Tiger moth had a record year. The species was recorded more widely and in higher numbers than ever before.
By contrast, Holly Blue had its second worst Big Butterfly Count result on record, Common Blue had its third worst and Meadow Brown had its fourth worst Count result.
What can be done to help
Butterflies are key indicators of the UK’s biodiversity and environmental health. Tracking their numbers helps Butterfly Conservation understand the impacts of climate change, habitat loss, and conservation action.
This year’s results are a reminder of how much we still need to do if we want to restore butterfly numbers in the UK.
Dr Richard Fox added: “We’ve reached a critical moment. The time to take action for UK butterflies is now. We know the weather impacts their numbers and with the summer we’ve just had we should be seeing them in far greater numbers. Even when the weather is good, the environment is only able to support far fewer butterflies than it used to.
“We must now do more to improve the habitat that our butterflies live in. This is why Butterfly Conservation is calling for an end to the unlicensed use of butterfly-killing synthetic pesticides, and asking retailers to take them off the shelves.
“We are in a nature crisis. We should be providing people with the tools to help and not the means of destruction.”
A rescue mission
Butterfly Conservation has launched a rescue mission for the UK’s butterflies and is asking people to sign its open letter to retailers calling for the removal of toxic synthetic pesticides from sale for domestic use. You can add your name by visiting www.butterfly-conservation.org
Big Butterfly Count will return in 2026. Next year’s event will take place between July 17 and August 9 so be sure to make a note in your diary – let the countdown begin!
This year, we’re not just launching a survey — we’re launching a nationwide rescue mission, and we need everyone to get involved.
Last summer, Britain’s butterflies sent an urgent SOS through Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count.
The wildlife charity declared a Butterfly Emergency after results revealed a marked and deeply concerning decline in butterfly numbers, which were the lowest in the Count’s history.
The 2024 figures followed a pattern of long-term decline as butterflies struggle against a backdrop of habitat degradation, climate breakdown and pesticide use.
That’s why this year, we’re not just launching a survey — we’re launching a nationwide rescue mission, and we need everyone to get involved.
No lab coats. No science degrees. Just 15 minutes of your time.
Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count 2025 begins on Friday 18 July, and we’re calling on thousands of everyday heroes, from schoolkids to grandparents, dog walkers, hikers, even office workers on their lunch break, to take part.
Worryingly, 80% of butterflies have declined since the 1970s. These delicate icons of summer respond quickly to environmental change, making their decline a powerful warning sign of a planet in peril.
The good news? There is hope. With just 15 minutes of your time, you can help protect UK butterfly species for future generations.
️ The mission?
Spend 15 minutes in any outdoor space and count the butterflies and day-flying moths you see and submit your sightings to help build our interactive map.
That’s it. One small action that contributes to a much bigger effort to help save butterfly species and the ecosystems they support.
“This is a chance to turn curiosity into conservation and make a real contribution to protecting butterflies in the UK for generations to come,” said Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation. “Butterflies are beautiful, yes — but they’re also incredibly important bioindicators. This means that as they continue to disappear, as they have over recent decades, it indicates something is going seriously wrong in our natural world. We need to heed that warning and take action before it’s too late.
“If we lose butterflies, we lose more than beauty — we lose balance in our ecosystems and that will have serious repercussions for wildlife in the UK. Taking part in the Big Butterfly Count only takes 15 minutes and it’s something everybody can do. If you do one thing for nature this year, get out for the Count this summer! – Every count really does make a difference.”
Whether you see a Red Admiral, a Common Blue, or an entire kaleidoscope of Meadow Browns, your sightings provide vital data that help scientists understand where butterflies are thriving, struggling, or shifting due to habitat loss or restoration.
And by taking part, you’re doing more than logging data — you’re standing up for nature. Your observations will help create a live map of UK biodiversity, visible in real-time through the Big Butterfly Count website and free app.
Why It Matters
With over 80% of UK butterfly species in decline, every single sighting counts. Butterflies are early warning signs of environmental collapse — when they struggle, so do birds, bees, and entire ecosystems.
Together, we can reverse the trend by learning where and why butterflies are struggling and taking action to save them.
What’s the problem?
Butterflies are struggling because their habitat is being destroyed and the climate they thrive in is changing and becoming more unpredictable.
Populations may also be declining as a result of pesticide use, both commercially and in gardens. Even insecticides and pesticides labelled “pollinator friendly” can harm butterflies and other pollinating insects.
Employing more nature friendly gardening methods, such as companion planting and allowing wild spaces to flourish within our gardens are two of the best ways to help butterflies thrive at home.
2024 officially one of the worst years on record for UK butterflies
More than half of UK butterfly species are now in long-term decline for the first time on record
Small Tortoiseshell had its worst year ever and is in long-term decline
Common butterflies that live in gardens, parks and the wider countryside had their second-worst year since 1976
51 of the UK’s 59 species declined in 2024 compared to 2023
Newly released data has shown that 2024 was one of the worst years on record for butterflies in the UK and, for the first time on record, more than half of butterfly species in the UK are now in long-term decline.
Nine species had their worst year since counting began, including the much-loved Small Tortoiseshell, Chalk Hill Blue and Small Copper.
Worryingly, last year was also the second-worst year on record for ‘wider countryside species’ – the common butterflies that live in gardens, parks and across the landscape such as Common Blue, Gatekeeper and Large White.
The figures come from the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS) which has asked volunteers to count butterflies across the country since 1976 and now monitors more than 3,000 sites. The scheme is led by national charity Butterfly Conservation, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC).
Overall, 2024 was the fifth worst year since records began for UK butterflies. Butterfly numbers always fluctuate annually, and last year’s low numbers are partly the result of a wet spring and relatively cool summer, however UKBMS data also show that 31 of the 59 resident UK species are now in long-term decline.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said:“I am devastated by the decline of our beloved British butterflies, and I’m sorry to say it has been brought about by human actions: we have destroyed wildlife habitats, polluted the environment, used pesticides on an industrial scale and we are changing the climate.
“That means that when we have poor weather, these already-depleted butterfly populations are highly vulnerable and can’t bounce back like they once did – and with climate change, that unusual weather is becoming more and more usual.”
In total, 51 of the UK’s 59 species declined in 2024 compared to 2023, with just six species showing any increase.
Among the most concerning species is the Small Tortoiseshell: one of the most well-known butterflies in the UK, its bright colours and appearance in gardens have made it a recognisable favourite.
However, since the first UKBMS results in 1976, its abundance has plummeted by 86%. Numbers in 2023 were the worst ever at that point, and last year were down again.
Unlike many of the species that are faring worst, the Small Tortoiseshell is not a rarity confined to nature reserves but a ‘wider countryside species’, living in all parts of the UK and drinking nectar from a wide variety of flowers. Its caterpillars feed on stinging nettles.
Of the eight other species that had their worst year on record, Green-veined White, Small Skipper, Large Skipper and Small Copper are also wider countryside species.
The Green-veined White, one of the UK’s most widespread butterflies, is also now in significant long-term decline.
The Grizzled Skipper, Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary and Chalk Hill Blue, which also had their worst year on record, are already listed as threatened on the GB butterfly Red List.
These species all require specific habitat to thrive, and those habitats have been destroyed over the past century.
Dr Marc Botham, Butterfly Ecologist at the UKCEH, said: “These deeply concerning results from the UKBMS emphasise just how important it is to monitor and record our wildlife so we can target conservation efforts and protect our beloved species.
“Butterflies in particular are valuable not just in their own right but also as indicator species, meaning they can tell us about the health of the wider environment, which makes the UKBMS data invaluable in assessing the health of our countryside and natural world in general.”
The UKBMS figures come after Butterfly Conservation declared a UK-wide Butterfly Emergency following the worst-ever results of its Big Butterfly Count last year.
Dr Fox said:“Most people will not be surprised by these results: all last summer we were inundated with people asking where the butterflies had gone and what they can do to help.
“By far the best thing we can do to help butterflies is to create more habitat. Last year we published research which showed that letting parts of your garden grow wild with long grass increases the number and variety of butterflies that you see.
“That is why we are calling on people and councils across the UK to pledge to not cut their grass this year from April to September: this simple act can make a real, immediate difference to butterflies, moths and other wildlife.”
Dr James Heywood, Bird Survey Organiser at BTO said:“We are incredibly grateful to the thousands of skilled volunteers who monitored butterflies last year at more than 3,000 sites as part of the UKBMS, as well the 300 volunteers who are recording both birds and butterflies at the same locations.
“The collective data, which reveal a concerning picture for so many species, will help to inform lasting, impactful conservation decisions. We will continue to support and encourage these brilliant citizen scientists to contribute to this scheme and ensure a better future for our amazing British wildlife.”
Steve Wilkinson, Director of Ecosystem Evidence & Advice at JNCC, said:“The results revealed by the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme highlights why robust wildlife monitoring is absolutely essential for conservation.
“Without the dedicated efforts of thousands of volunteers tracking butterfly numbers, we wouldn’t fully understand the scale of this decline. This comprehensive surveillance allows us to identify which species need urgent intervention, track long-term trends, and measure the effectiveness of our conservation efforts.
“The UKBMS data doesn’t just tell us about butterflies – it provides a critical indicator of the health of our wider environment. In the face of habitat loss and climate change, these monitoring schemes provide the evidence base we need to take meaningful action before it’s too late.”
Big Butterfly Count results reveal lowest numbers on record
Butterfly Conservation calls on Government to declare a ‘Nature Emergency’ and act now by banning toxic neonicotinoid pesticides, before it’s too late
Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count 2024 saw the lowest number of butterflies spotted per Count in its 14-year history
A third of species had their worst year on record ever
More than 9,000 Big Butterfly Counts reported not seeing a single butterfly
Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation has today declared a national ‘Butterfly Emergency’, with results of this summer’s Big Butterfly Count showing a marked and hugely concerning decline in numbers.
Overall, participants spotted just seven butterflies on average per 15-minute Count, a reduction of almost 50% on last year’s average of 12, and the lowest in the 14-year history of the Big Butterfly Count.
It was the worst summer in the Count’s history for Common Blue, Holly Blue, Green-veined White, Small White, Small Tortoiseshell, Painted Lady and Scotch Argus. And the majority of species (81%) showed declines in the number seen this year compared with 2023.
In total, just over 935,000 butterflies and day-flying moths were recorded across the UK from 12 July – 4 August, down almost 600,000, equivalent to more than a third of 2023’s total, and 9,000 Counts were logged as seeing zero butterflies, the highest in the citizen science programme’s history.
These figures have alarmed scientists and resulted in the charity declaring a nationwide ‘Butterfly Emergency’.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said: “The previous lowest average number of butterflies per Count was nine in 2022, this latest figure is 22% lower than that, which is very disturbing.
“Not just that, but a third of the species recorded in the Big Butterfly Count have had their worst year on record, and no species had their best. The results are in line with wider evidence that the summer of 2024 has been very poor for butterflies.
“Butterflies are a key indicator species; when they are in trouble we know that the wider environment is in trouble too. Nature is sounding the alarm call. We must act now if we are to turn the tide on these rapid declines and protect species for future generations.”
Butterfly Conservation is writing an open letter to Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, calling for the Government to act now for nature by declaring a ‘Nature Emergency’ and banning butterfly-killing neonicotinoid pesticides once and for all, with no exceptions, before it’s too late.
Dr Fox explains: “When used on farmland, these chemicals make their way into the wild plants growing at field edges, resulting in adult butterflies and moths drinking contaminated nectar and caterpillars feeding on contaminated plants.
Many European countries have already banned these chemicals, it’s time for the UK to follow suit and put the natural world first. If we don’t act now to address the long-term drivers of butterfly decline, we will face extinction events never before seen in our lifetime.”
More than 85,000 citizen scientists took part in Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count this year, submitting 143,241 Counts. This is equivalent to 35,810 hours, or four years worth of time spent counting, in gardens, parks, school grounds and the countryside.
Dr Richard Fox concluded: “If every single person who helped with the Count this summer signs our letter to the Government, we could prevent the very real and pressing threat of species becoming extinct in our lifetime.”
To sign Butterfly Conservation’s letter to the Government asking them to declare a ‘Nature Emergency’ and ban butterfly-killing neonicotinoid pesticides visit: https://butterfly-conservation.org/emergency
Species results in the UK – Big Butterfly Count 2024
Next year’s Big Butterfly Count will take place from Friday 18 July – Sunday 10 August 2025.
UK Totals
BBC 2024: UK
Abundance
Average per count
% change from 2023
14-year trend(bold = statistically significant)
1
Gatekeeper
190,413
1.5
-18
-32%
2
Meadow Brown
177,844
1.4
6
-15%
3
Large White
138,424
1.1
-38
2%
4
Small White
112,814
0.9
-46
-19%
5
Peacock
50,847
0.4
-67
-30%
6
Red Admiral
47,109
0.4
-82
28%
7
Ringlet
44,278
0.3
85
-47%
8
Speckled Wood
30,112
0.2
-2
-38%
9
Comma
24,498
0.2
-52
-20%
10
Green-veined White
18,951
0.1
-24
-65%
11
Six-spot Burnet
18,102
0.1
88
–
12
Marbled White
17,922
0.1
101
-18%
13
Small Copper
13,962
0.1
-30
48%
14
Small Tortoiseshell
12,432
0.1
-74
-59%
15
Common Blue
9,755
0.1
-69
-52%
16
Brimstone
8,622
0.1
-53
-18%
17
Holly Blue
7,090
0.1
-80
36%
18
Painted Lady
4,170
0.03
-66
9%
19
Silver Y
4,101
0.03
-30
–
20
Jersey Tiger
3,496
0.03
-29
–
21
Scotch Argus
499
0.004
-61
–
Totals
935,441
7
-40
–
Note:
Ringlet, Marbled White and Six-spot Burnet appeared to have fared well in the Big Butterfly Count this year compared to 2023, however, this was due to their peak flight periods coinciding with the count. Over the course of the whole summer, these species also seem to have fared worse than usual.
To account for annual variation in flight periods, which are heavily influenced by the weather, Butterfly Conservation has produced a fourteen-year trend (2011–2024) for Big Butterfly Count species which can be seen in the results table.
This shows that although these species fared well this year, the long-term picture for the two butterfly species is very different. Over the last 14 years Ringlet has declined by 47% and Marbled White by 18%.
Overall, the 14-year trends show that 11 species (65%) are declining, and three species (18%) are increasing, these are Red Admiral, Holly Blue and Small Copper.
Wet weather and low temperatures causinghavoc for butterflies during Big Butterfly Count
Leading wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation has revealed very low numbers of butterflies have been spotted so far in its annual Big Butterfly Count. On average participants are seeing just over half the number of butterflies they were spotting this time last year.
The unusually wet and windy spring, coupled with the colder than usual temperatures so far this summer could be contributing to the lack of butterflies. While there is a chance of a later emergence of the insects if there is a prolonged sunny spell, numbers are currently the lowest recorded in the 14-year history of Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count.
With just one week remaining of the Big Butterfly Count, scientists are calling on the public to get outside for 15 minutes and record the number and type of butterflies they see – and to enter their results even if they see very few or no butterflies – as this will help them to understand more about how butterflies in the UK are faring.
Dr Dan Hoare, Director of Conservation at Butterfly Conservation, explains: “Butterflies need some warm and dry conditions to be able to fly around and mate. If the weather doesn’t allow for this there will be fewer opportunities to breed, and the lack of butterflies now is likely the knock-on effect of our very dreary spring and early summer.”
However, the charity is also warning that it is not only this year’s weather that is contributing to the lack of butterflies being seen. 80% of butterflies in the UK have declined since the 1970s, with habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use the main drivers of this decline.
With populations of butterflies already depleted, they are less resilient to the impact of poor weather.
Dr Dan Hoare continues: “The lack of butterflies this year is a warning sign to us all. Nature is sounding the alarm and we must listen. Butterflies are a key indicator species. When they are in trouble we know the wider environment is in trouble too.
“People are telling us that they aren’t seeing butterflies, but simply telling us is not enough, we need everyone to record what they are or aren’t seeing by doing a Big Butterfly Count as this will give us the evidence we need to take vital action to conserve our butterfly species.”
Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count is the largest citizen-science project of its kind and is a positive action everyone can take to help collect important scientific data which informs policy decision making and conservation effort.
The public are asked to spend just 15 minutes outside when in a sunny spot and record the number and type of butterflies they see.
Whether done with friends and family, or in a moment of quiet and calm solitude, the Big Butterfly Count is free, fun and quick to do. It is open to anyone, of any age, in any part of the UK – towns, cities or the countryside. No green space is too small – a back garden, a small terrace or balcony with some pot plants, a public park, allotment, or country lane are all important spaces to explore, track and report.
Last year more than 135,000 Big Butterfly Counts took place up and down the country, with participants spending a combined total of almost four years counting butterflies. The information gathered helps scientists to understand how butterflies and moths and faring, informs conservation projects, government policies, and supports other experts with their research and vital work to protect our planet.
This year’s Big Butterfly Count ends on Sunday 4 August. For more information and to take part simply visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.
Butterfly Conservation issues rallying cry to people of Scotland
Last summer, citizen scientists in Scotland spotted 28,043 butterflies and day-flying moths during the Big Butterfly Count. Today, wildlife conservation charity, Butterfly Conservation, is issuing a rallying cry to people in the region to help beat that this year.
In 2023, people across Scotland did 5,087 Big Butterfly Counts, with Small White taking the top spot for species sightings. Scientists are hoping even more people will take part to help find out what’s happening with the region’s butterflies before the Count ends on Sunday 4 August.
It’s more important than ever that people take part this year. After analysing 50 years of data, researchers have discovered a clear northward spread for many species, including common garden favourites the Peacock, Comma and Holly Blue, the result of climate change creating warmer habitats for them to survive in.
Butterflies are indicators of the health of our natural environment – and with half of Britain’s butterfly species already threatened or near threatened with extinction, it’s never been more important to understand how these species are responding to the changing climate and to take action to protect them.
Dr Zoë Randle, Senior Surveys Officer at Butterfly Conservation explains: ‘We really need people across Scotland to get out for the Count to help us understand the impact of climate change on our most-loved butterflies.
“We’re relying on everyone, everywhere to spend just 15 minutes outdoors and let us know what they see. With species on the move, someone in Scotland might even be the first to spot a new species in their area!”
Whether done with friends and family, or in a moment of quiet calm and solitude, Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count is free, fun and takes just 15 minutes in a sunny spot. It is open to anyone, of any age, in any part of the UK – towns, cities or the countryside. No green space is too small – a back garden, a small terrace or balcony with some pot plants, a public park, allotment or country lane are all important spaces to explore, track and report.
Last year more than 135,000 Counts took place up and down the country, with participants spending a combined four years counting butterflies in their gardens, local parks, urban community spaces, balconies, courtyards and in the countryside. The information gathered helps to inform conservation projects, government policies and supports other experts with their research and vital work to protect our planet.
This year’s Big Butterfly Count is already underway, running from Friday 12 July – Sunday 4 August.
For more information and to take part simply visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.
Data shows butterflies are spreading northward due to climate change creating warmer habitats
Migratory Red Admiral now overwintering and classed as a UK resident with three fold increase in numbers
New species spotted in new places, including the Holly Blue in Scotland and Jersey Tiger in central London
Citizen scientists are vital in discovering how garden favourite butterflies are on the move through the Big Butterfly Count
Leading wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation is today calling on people across the UK to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count (12 July – 4 August) and help scientists understand how climate change is moving butterflies.
After analysing 50 years of data, researchers have discovered a clear northward spread for many species, including common garden favourites the Peacock, Comma and Holly Blue, the result of climate change creating warmer habitats for them to survive in.
Another species on the move is the Jersey Tiger. Previously found only in south-west England, the striking day-flying moth has in recent years been spotted as far north as central London, gaining its spot in the Big Butterfly Count in 2021.
And at the other end of the scale, species such as the Scotch Argus in Scotland (above) are retreating northwards to stay in the cooler climes this butterfly prefers.
Butterflies are indicators of the health of our natural environment – and with half of Britain’s butterfly species already threatened or near threatened with extinction, it’s never been more important to understand how these species are responding to the changing climate and to take action to protect them.
To help scientists discover more about the movement and trends of where butterflies are living, the public are being asked to spend 15 minutes in any sunny spot and record the number and type of butterflies they see this summer.
Dr Zoë Randle, Senior Surveys Officer at Butterfly Conservation explains: “Thirty years ago you wouldn’t have seen a Holly Blue in Scotland, now it has expanded where it lives across the UK by 34%, increasingly spreading northward.
“And the Red Admiral, which was once a migratory species most commonly seen in southern England in the summer and then leaving for Europe in the winter, is now living in the UK all year round, resulting in a three-fold increase in their numbers.
“We’re also seeing other species which have previously suffered severe declines, such as the Comma, recovering, with a huge increase of 94% in where it is found. These highly adaptable species are all able to move into new places as the climate warms, but for habitat specific species, these trends raise serious red flags.
“Species that rely on particular habitats aren’t able to move as freely as our garden favourites. This means that if climate change continues, they could become trapped in isolated fragments of remaining habitat, unable to move and with their food plants at risk from adverse weather conditions, facing the very real threat of extinction.”
Butterfly Conservation Vice President, Chris Packham, who today launches this year’s Big Butterfly Count, explains: “Butterflies are on the move, and there’s no doubt that climate breakdown is behind these geographic shifts.
“We know nature is running out of time, so we need to act now. We need you to get out for the Big Butterfly Count, let us know what you spot and where you spot it. You will be gathering the important data we need to see what the latest impacts are on our butterflies and moths, so that we can take the action needed to protect them.”
Chris Packham is not alone in his support for the Big Butterfly Count, as President of Butterfly Conservation, Sir David Attenborough has shared poignant messages in his support of the Count over the years.
Sir David said: “The UK is a nation of amateur naturalists, and we have a proud tradition of celebrating and studying our wildlife.
“Every single person taking part in the Big Butterfly Count helps to build a picture of how butterflies are faring and how we can best conserve them. A few precious moments spent watching a stunning Red Admiral or Peacock butterfly feeding amongst the flowers in my garden never fails to bring me great pleasure.”
Other famous faces to have taken part or supported the Big Butterfly Count over the last few years include His Majesty King Charles III, Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte, Butterfly Conservation Vice President Dr Amir Khan, and even Winnie the Pooh!
Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count is the largest citizen-science project of its kind and is a positive action everyone can do to help collect important scientific data, as well as enjoy time outdoors, connect with nature and have fun.
Whether done with friends and family, or in a moment of quiet calm and solitude, the Big Butterfly Count is free, fun and takes just 15 minutes. It is open to anyone, of any age, in any part of the UK – towns, cities or the countryside.
No green space is too small – a back garden, a small terrace or balcony with some pot plants, a public park, allotment, or country lane are all important spaces to explore, track and report.
Last year more than 135,000 Counts took place up and down the country, with participants spending a combined total of almost four years counting butterflies.
The information gathered helps scientists to understand how butterflies and moths are faring, informs conservation projects, government policies and supports other experts with their research and vital work to protect our planet.
Dr Zoë Randle said: “In total, over 1.5 million butterflies and day-flying moths were recorded in last year’s Count, where the Red Admiral reigned supreme with almost 250,000 sightings.
“We’re wondering whether someone this year will be the first to spot a new species in their area, and what the results will show for our butterflies and moths across the UK.”
This year’s Big Butterfly Count runs from Friday 12 July – Sunday 4 August.
For more information and to take part simply visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the free Big Butterfly Count app.
New six-year study proves that leaving areas of grass to grow long in gardens can increase butterfly numbers by up to 93%
This the first scientific evidence that wildlife-friendly gardening practices, such as having long grass and flowering ivy, boost the numbers and typesof butterflies, particularly in urban areas and near farmland
The research is great news for gardeners and non-gardeners alike, proving the free and easy action of letting an area go wild can make a positive impact for butterflies
Letting parts of your garden grow wild with long grass can increase butterfly numbers by up to 93% and attract a wider range of species, according to new research from leading wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation.
The study, published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, provides the first scientific evidence that having long grass in your garden increases butterfly abundance and diversity. Creating such wild spaces may help to reverse the decline of these beautiful insects.
Undertaken by Butterfly Conservation scientists Dr Lisbeth Hordley and Dr Richard Fox, the research analysed butterfly sightings from more than 600 gardens across the UK, collected by members of the public over six years through the charity’s Garden Butterfly Survey.
The results show that gardens with long grass had a significantly higher number of butterflies recorded, with a greater variety of species, than those without.
Importantly, the biggest benefits of these wild spaces were found in urban areas and intensively farmed landscapes. In highly arable areas, gardens with long grass saw up to 93% more butterflies, and those in urban areas showed an increase of 18%.
The potential to provide wild spaces for butterflies and moths to thrive is huge. Gardens make up more than 728,000 hectares in Great Britain – the equivalent of over a million football pitches.
If each of these gardens had a space that was allowed to go a little wild, with grass growing long, it would make a huge difference for butterflies and moths, providing spaces for them to feed, breed and shelter.
While the research specifically studied gardens, the benefits to butterflies of long grass and wild spaces are likely to extend beyond the garden gate. Public green spaces such as parks, school grounds, allotments, and road verges, could also provide vital spaces for wildlife, and enable more people to see more butterflies if allowed to go a little wild.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation and co-author of the study, said: “Nature is in crisis; 80% of butterflies have declined since the 1970s, so we need to take action now to protect them.
“We wanted to be able to give tried and tested gardening advice that will benefit butterflies as we know lots of people want to help. This study proves, for the first time, that allowing a patch of grass to grow long will attract more butterflies into your garden.”
The study also found that the presence of flowering ivy in gardens increased the number of certain butterfly species, such as the Holly Blue, Red Admiral and Comma, which use ivy as a breeding habitat or nectar source.
Butterfly Conservation is calling for everyone to create their own Wild Space, no matter how big or small, to help butterflies survive and thrive. Through its Wild Spaces programme, the charity aims to transform 100,000 areas across the UK to help support butterfly populations.
Dr Fox added: “The simple act of creating wild spaces by allowing a patch of grass to grow long, or a border edge to go wild is free and easy to do, and can significantly boost butterfly numbers, especially in urban and agricultural settings where they are most under pressure. The benefits of each individual wild space are small, but if thousands of people get involved the boost to butterflies could be huge.
“Whether you have a large garden, a small patch of grass, a community or school space, or a balcony or window box, anyone, anywhere can help. We hope that our Wild Spaces programme will inspire people across the UK to take action and help to create a national network of butterfly-friendly habitats.”
Wild Spaces can be created by anyone, anywhere – from gardens to shared community spaces, balconies, terraces, or patios. No matter the size or location, every Wild Space can contribute to the recovery of butterfly populations and support biodiversity.
The latest results from the annual UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS), led by wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), show that 2023 was a mixed picture for butterflies, with some species soaring while others continued worrying declines.
Half the 58 species had a better than average year while the other half were below average at monitored sites. Species that flourished included Chequered Skipper, Brimstone, and Large Blue, which all recorded their best year since the UKBMS began in 1976.
Another species recording its best-ever year was the Red Admiral, a migratory species that has begun to overwinter in the UK as the climate has warmed, making it a common visitor across all habitats, including gardens. Its numbers have increased by 318% at monitored sites since 1976.
At the other end of the scale were the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary and garden favourite the Small Tortoiseshell, recording their lowest numbers in the 48 years of monitoring, declining by 71% and 82%, respectively since 1976.
Small Tortoiseshell had its worst year on record in England, second worst in Wales and joint fifth worst in Scotland in 2023, but did really well in Northern Ireland, logging its second best year.
The Large Blue, which was reintroduced to the UK after becoming extinct in the 1970s, recorded its best year yet, showing the conservation work with this species is really working.
Other species that had a remarkable year include Brown Argus, Marbled White, Comma, Black Hairstreak, and Holly Blue, which all ranked in their top three best years since 1976. On the other hand, Cryptic Wood White, Grizzled Skipper, Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Grayling and Scotch Argus faced significant difficulties.
The Green-veined White and Ringlet both had a poor year, perhaps suffering ongoing effects from the drought the previous summer.
The UKBMS, which began in 1976, is one of the world’s longest-running insect monitoring schemes.
Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, said: “Butterfly numbers fluctuate naturally from year to year, largely due to the weather, but the long-term trends of UK butterflies are mainly driven by human activity, including habitat damage and destruction, pesticide use, pollution and climate change.
“By monitoring long-term butterfly trends we can learn about the impact of climate change and other factors on our native wildlife.”
Dr Marc Botham, Butterfly Ecologist at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, added: “Butterflies are an indicator species, meaning they can tell us about the health of the wider environment, which makes the UKBMS data invaluable in assessing the health of our countryside and natural world in general.
” The mixed results this year emphasise the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts to protect these important species and their habitats.”
Dr James Heywood, Breeding Bird Survey National Organiser at the British Trust for Ornithology, whose volunteers contribute to the UKBMS, commented: “In 2023, thousands of skilled volunteers monitored a record-breaking 3,316 sites across the UK, gathering valuable data that will help to inform conservation decisions for the future.
“We are incredibly grateful to each and every one of those people who carry out the monitoring and help us to maintain this highly valuable study.”
Chris Tuckett, Chief Officer for Strategy and Impact at JNCC, said: “The evidence produced through environmental monitoring, such as the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme demonstrates the vital role these schemes play in helping us understand the effects of pressures on the natural environment and, equally importantly, how efforts to address these pressures through nature conservation and recovery can be effective in reversing decline.
“JNCC has supported these schemes, which involve thousands of dedicated volunteers, for over 30 years, and remains committed to continuing to support them in the future.”
The UKBMS now records data on over 3,000 sites per year and the resulting dataset is a crucial resource for understanding changes in insect populations and has provided significant insights into almost all aspects of butterfly ecology.
As the UK faces the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and other environmental pressures, the work of the UKBMS and organisations like Butterfly Conservation, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, the British Trust for Ornithology and JNCC remains essential in monitoring and protecting precious butterfly populations and the habitats they depend on.
No lab coats. No science degrees. Just 15 minutes of your time.
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