People urged to help butterflies – and boost own mental health

People are being urged to take steps to help butterflies and moths this spring as part of a project which experts said could boost the mental health of those who take part.

The campaign by charity Butterfly Conservation to prevent further declines in species of butterflies and moths comes after research found last year’s lockdown saw an increase in the amount of people spending time in nature.

A short amount of time spent in nature can alleviate stress and make people feel happier and more energised, according to the charity.

The Nature for Nurture project, in partnership with Dobbies Garden Centres, aims to provide householders with tools and information that can help boost numbers of pollinators.

Dr Kate Dent, director of engagement at Butterfly Conservation, said: “As spring finally arrives, we can all do our little bit towards helping butterflies, wherever we live, in the knowledge that it’s helping our mental health too.

“Whether it’s caring for herb seedlings in a window box, planting wildflowers in your garden or learning afresh how to breathe and feel the gift of nature in our local green spaces.”

Those interested can find more information at: http://www.butterflyconservation.org/ nurturefornature