Residents urged to join nationwide butterfly count

Core point

Residents in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole are encouraged to participate in the Big Butterfly Count to assess the impact of hot weather on butterfly populations. The survey, organized by Butterfly Conservation, runs until 9 August and involves recording butterflies and day-flying moths for 15 minutes. The BCP area is home to important butterfly habitats, including Canford Heath and Bourne Valley. Approximately 80% of UK butterfly species have declined over the past 50 years due to various environmental factors.