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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Emily Beament

Britain’s favourite butterfly revealed after nationwide poll

  • The vibrant peacock butterfly has been crowned the UK's favourite butterfly in a new poll conducted by conservationists.
  • Its distinctive “eye-spots” and striking colours, which serve as a defence mechanism, helped it secure the top position among 59 British species.
  • The poll, run by Butterfly Conservation, received over 20,000 votes, with the orange-tip, red admiral, holly blue and brimstone butterflies completing the top five.
  • The charity, which declared a “butterfly emergency” in 2024 due to record low numbers, is urging the public to participate in this year's Big Butterfly Count .
  • The Big Butterfly Count runs from 17 July to 9 August, encouraging people to spend 15 minutes counting butterflies and day-flying moths to aid conservation efforts.

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