Over Half of UK Butterfly Species Now in Long-Term Decline

New data highlights 2024 as the fifth worst year on record, with human actions driving habitat loss and climate-related challenges.

The UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme confirms that for the first time, over half of the UK's butterfly species are in long-term decline.
2024 saw widespread population drops, with 51 of 59 species declining compared to 2023, marking the fifth worst year since records began.
Key species, including the small tortoiseshell, chalk hill blue, and small copper, experienced their worst year on record in 2024.
Human activities such as habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change are identified as primary drivers of the declines.
Conservationists urge individuals and councils to create wild habitats, including letting grass grow from April to September, to support butterfly recovery.