Well, it’s that time of year again for everyone who wants to get involved in a nature project – today (14th July) sees the launch of the 2023 Big Butterfly Count!  (It finishes on 6th August 2023.)

It’s the biggest survey of butterflies in the world.

In 202, over 64,760 people took part and submitted 96,257 counts.  The information people submit is invaluable – it helps Butterfly Conservation understand how these delicate and beautiful insects are coping, given the climate and nature crisis we face.  Scientists can look at the results and put conservation measures in place.  The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch (January every year) does a similar thing.  These counts help conservation charities identify species in trouble and then take steps to help them.

Help change the fortunes of butterflies!

The State of Butterflies 2022 reported earlier this year that 80% of butterfly species have decreased since the 1980s. In recent years, Butterfly Conservation has helped change the fortunes of a number of species such as the Chequered Skipper and Duke of Burgundy.  It’s also stopped the decline of many others.

So taking part is a really easy and helpful thing to do.   And it only takes 15 minutes of your time!

 How to take part in the Big Butterfly Count 2023

1. Download the mobile app or sign up to the website
2. Find a sunny spot
3. Spend 15 minutes spotting butterflies & moths
4. Record how many & what species you see

Flutter off to the Big Butterfly Count’s website here.

The website tells you all you need to know!