Local people in Milton Keynes are being encouraged to take part in the Big Butterfly Count event to track butterfly numbers.
The Parks Trust, which is the charity that cares for the city’s parks, is calling on residents to take part in the 2025 edition of this event, which will be running until 10th August.
People can do so by simply spending 15 minutes in a sunny spot and recording the butterflies you see.
Tracking this data is intended to help contribute towards a national database that helps track population trends and inform future conservation efforts.
Milton Keynes is home to 32 butterfly species, including the nationally scarce Black Hairstreak which has been spotted recently in local woodland. Other species to look out for include the Red Admiral, Peacock, Gatekeeper, and Speckled Wood.
Sadly, over half of the UK’s butterfly species are in long-term decline, with 2024 being the fifth worst on record for butterfly populations. Factors such as wet spring weather, pesticide use, and habitat loss have all contributed to this worrying trend.
In a statement, The Parks Trust said, “That’s why The Parks Trust and the Butterfly Conservation are encouraging everyone to get involved, from curious nature lovers to seasoned lepidopterists (people who study butterflies and moths).”
Carla Boswell, Biodiversity Officer at The Parks Trust, added, “This is a fantastic opportunity for families, friends and individuals to connect with nature and support our precious wildlife. Every butterfly counted helps to build a clearer picture of how our local and national species are faring.”
There are lots of ways you can help, including
- Plant native wildflowers in your garden or balcony to support butterflies and caterpillars.
- Provide shallow water dishes, butterfly houses, and feeding stations.
- Avoid using harmful pesticides and support wildlife-friendly policies.
- Record your sightings during the Big Butterfly Count and become a citizen scientist.
To learn more and to get involved, visit theparkstrust.com/butterflies