People urged to protect butterflies and help boost their 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.

The University of Cumbria study revealed 83% of respondents said they had taken time to notice butterflies and bees.

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

Dr Amir Khan, Butterfly Conservation ambassador, said: "As we head into spring again, we must remember how our increased connectedness with nature during the warmer months of last year really helped us. Like a butterfly that exists as a tiny egg over winter, the promise of spring has been with us during the winter months and now it's back there's plenty we can do to feel inspired by and part of the wildlife around us."

The nature for nu tu re 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 bit towards helping butterflies in the knowledge that it's helping our mental health too.”

Those interested can find more information at: http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/nurturefornature