Britain’s Butterfly Numbers Rebound but Remain Average

Published: 09 September 2025. The English Chronicle Desk

Britain’s butterflies have staged a modest recovery following the dismal summer of 2024, though the annual Big Butterfly Count shows that overall numbers remain at average levels. The survey, the largest citizen science insect monitoring initiative in the world, saw more than 125,000 volunteers record an average of 10.3 butterflies per 15-minute count in parks, gardens, and green spaces across the country.

This represents a significant improvement from 2024, which recorded a record low of just seven butterflies per count. Sightings of the large white butterfly soared by 131%, while the small white rose 128%, and the red admiral increased by 185%. Despite these gains, Butterfly Conservation warned that the apparent recovery only brings numbers back to typical levels, with higher counts recorded in 2023 and each summer from 2016 to 2020.

Dr Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, emphasized that the broader trends remain concerning. “We may feel like we’ve seen lots of butterflies this summer, but that’s only because last year was so poor. Our 15-year Big Butterfly Count trends show that more than twice as many widespread species have declined significantly than have increased. Even in generally favourable weather, one-third of species fared poorly,” he said.

Several species achieved record or near-record counts this year. The large and small white butterflies recorded their best-ever results, and the day-flying Jersey tiger moth was observed more widely and in higher numbers than ever. Conversely, some familiar garden species fared poorly. The holly blue had its second-worst showing, while the meadow brown recorded its fourth-worst result, likely because its flight period concluded earlier than usual.

The small tortoiseshell, recovering from its worst-ever count in 2024, remains in long-term decline, having fallen by 60% since 2011. Among the long-term winners are the large white, red admiral, and small copper, which have seen notable population increases over the past 15 years.

Fox stressed that conservation action remains critical to sustaining butterfly populations. “We urgently need to improve habitats, reduce pesticide use, and enhance the environments in which butterflies live. Without these measures, meaningful recovery is unlikely, regardless of favourable weather,” he said.

The results underline the delicate balance facing Britain’s butterflies: while short-term weather patterns can provide temporary relief, long-term conservation and habitat restoration are essential to secure their future.