Isle of Wight residents are being encouraged to take part in a nationwide butterfly survey this summer as experts hope warm weather could lead to one of the best seasons in years.
Following the worst Big Butterfly Count on record in 2025, conservationists say this year’s warm, dry Spring has created ideal conditions for several of the UK’s best-loved butterfly species – raising hopes that colourful displays could soon be seen across the Isle of Wight.
The charity Butterfly Conservation is now calling on Islanders to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count, which runs from Friday 17th July until Sunday 9th August.
With the Isle of Wight home to a wealth of nature reserves, coastal grassland, woodland and gardens, residents are being asked to spend just 15 minutes counting butterflies in any sunny outdoor space before submitting their sightings online or via the free Big Butterfly Count app.
The survey helps scientists understand how butterfly populations are changing, identifying where species are thriving, declining or shifting due to climate change, habitat loss and conservation efforts.
Early signs are encouraging, with species such as the Holly Blue and Small Copper enjoying an excellent spring across Britain. Peacock, Red Admiral and the distinctive yellow Brimstone have also been seen in promising numbers, offering hope that the summer could bring an abundance of butterflies to the Island’s countryside and gardens.
Kate Merry, Head of Engagement at Butterfly Conservation, said:
“After the colourful spring with seemingly lots of beautiful butterflies appearing across the UK, it’s tempting to assume we’re heading for a bumper summer, and we’d love nothing more as most of our butterfly species have undergone long-term declines.
Article continues below this advertisement “But a bright spring is only ever part of the story, which is why we need people out there taking part in the Big Butterfly Count this summer. We genuinely don’t yet know how this year will unfold, and the only way to find out is for people to tell us what they’re seeing in their own gardens and green spaces.”
Butterflies are regarded as important indicators of the health of the natural environment, with around 80% of UK species having declined over the past 50 years because of habitat loss, pollution and climate change.
The Isle of Wight’s mix of chalk downland, woodland, heathland and coastal habitats makes it one of the country’s most important areas for butterflies, with a wide range of species regularly recorded across the Island.
Kate added:
“Butterflies are icons of summer and, more importantly, key indicators of the UK’s biodiversity and environmental health. Every single person that takes part in the Big Butterfly Count and submits their sightings is helping us to see how these pollinators are doing, which in turn helps conservationists build a wider picture of how all insects are faring.
“It’s easy, fun for all the family, and a great excuse to get outside and experience the simple joy of spotting butterflies. You’ll also be helping to protect butterflies for future generations.”
How to take part
Residents can download the free Big Butterfly Count app or visit the Big Butterfly Count website.
Between Friday 17th July and Sunday 9th August, spend 15 minutes in any sunny outdoor space counting the butterflies and day-flying moths you see.
No specialist knowledge is required, with a free identification guide available through the app and website.
Sightings can then be submitted online to help build a national picture of butterfly populations and support future conservation work.
