butterflies
British butterfly guide: how to identify and the best places to spot
Britain is home to 59 species of butterfly, which all play an important role in pollination. In our expert guide, we take a look at butterfly identification, common butterfly species, how long butterflies live, and where to see them in the UK.
How to take part in the Big Butterfly Count 2023
Wildlife lovers are being urged to take part in the annual Big Butterfly Count – and what better reason to find a shady spot for 15 minutes? Here is our guide to the most common butterfly species to spot in the UK and how to take part in this year's count.
Hunting for a rare butterfly in Rockingham Forest in Northamptonshire
The chequered skipper butterfly has recently been reintroduced by the Back from the Brink Project to a secret site in Northamptonshire. In episode 11, season 9 of the Countryfile podcast, we try to track it down
Last year was ‘good’ for butterflies according to survey results
Although good numbers of sightings were recorded in 2020 for a number of butterfly species in the UK, conservationists warn that our view of what a 'good' year is shifting.
Day out: Sandscale Haws, Cumbria
Step out into the Duddon Estuary’s sandhills, with their unusual flora and fauna and breathtaking views to the Lake District peaks
British butterflies endured seventh worst year on record in 2017
Last year was the seventh worst year on record for British butterflies, with two native species suffering their worst season ever, according to an annual survey.
Butterflies suffer fourth worst year on record
British butterflies experienced a decline in 2016, making it one of the worst years since records began, a new study has found.
Butterflies declining more rapidly in towns and cities
Butterflies have disappeared from urban areas more rapidly than the countryside over the last two decades, a new study has found.
Butterfly species in significant decline, study finds
UK butterfly numbers struggled last year due to a cool summer, a study has found.
Pesticides harmful to butterflies, finds research
British butterfly populations could be declining as a result of neonicotinoid pesticides used on some arable crops, according to research.
Martin Down NNR, Hampshire
Stroll through flower-filled meadows where butterflies throng.
