Butterfly Conservation is asking everyone whether they have seen the Common Blue this year.
The Common Blue is the most widespread of the UK’s blue butterflies but in recent years its numbers have declined and in 2012 reached its lowest level on record.
As part of this year’s Big Butterfly Count, Butterfly Conservation has teamed up with the National Trustto ask the public to look out for and record the Common Blue on the coast.
It’s thought that the butterfly may be faring better on coastal sites than inland as habitats by the sea tend to be relatively unspoilt due to their inaccessibility. Modern intensive farming, forestry and building development has reduced the wildflower habitats needed by the Common Blue – factors believed to be behind the butterfly’s decline.
Have you seen it?
We were holidaying in Dorset last week and saw a common blue butterfly in Abbotsbury Dorset, absolutely beautiful we have photos with both folded and unfolded wings