Flutter we can’t lose

Call to help butterflies

SIR David Attenborough is asking people to break off from gardening and get counting this week to help butterflies.

Their numbers fell to one of their lowest levels in 2012 and a third of species now face extinction.

But the population can be boosted by simply allowing a patch of grass, nettles or brambles to grow wild.

Sir David said: “Just these small acts will create much- needed butterfly habitats and help to provide a lifeline for the UK’s back-garden wildlife.”

His advice came as part of the fifth annual Big Butterfly Count. Last year 46,000 people joined in and spotted 800,000 insects for the survey.

But this year the target has been set even higher – to one million.

Sir David said: “The UK is a nation of amateur naturalists and we have a proud tradition of celebrating wildlife. Everyone taking part in the Big Butterfly Count this summer can produce a statistic of real value.

“Their records help to build a picture of how butterflies are faring and also how we can best conserve them.” Last year’s most commonly spotted species – the small and large white – have struggled recently and have been overtaken by the peacock.

Another garden favourite, the small tortoiseshell, also had a good 2013, enjoying one of its best years. But migrants, including the red admiral and painted lady, did badly.

The decline of species can have far-reaching implications. The numbers can help to paint a general picture of how the natural world is faring.

Sir David said: “Butterflies are a key indicator species of the health of our environment – if they are struggling, other species are too.

“Bad news for butterflies is also bad news for the birds, bees, bats and other UK wildlife.

To take part in the study, people can count butterflies for 15 minutes in their garden, park or the countryside on a bright and sunny day this week.

This time of the year is perfect as most butterflies are at their adult stage so are more likely to be seen.

For details and to submit sightings, go to www.bigbutterflycount.org.

Struggling