17th July 2025
For immediate release
Nature Lovers: Can you help count our local butterflies this summer?
East Staffordshire residents are invited to take part in the Big Butterfly Count, running from Friday 18th July to Sunday 10th August 2025.
This nationwide citizen science survey, run by Butterfly Conservation, has become the world’s largest butterfly survey. Participants need just 15 minutes in bright, sunny weather to count butterflies and day-flying moths in any outdoor space.
The annual count helps assess the health of our environment, as butterflies are vital pollinators and key biodiversity indicators. Unfortunately, UK butterfly and moth numbers have declined significantly since the 1970s, making this survey crucial for conservation efforts.
Cllr Dennis Fletcher, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “East Staffordshire’s parks and green spaces provide excellent locations for butterfly counting, including Bramshall Road Park in Uttoxeter, Branston Water Park, and the enhanced Washlands area in Burton upon Trent, which support diverse wildlife habitats.”
Taking part is simple – spend 15 minutes counting butterflies in your garden, local park, or any green space during sunny weather. Even recording zero butterflies provides valuable data for researchers.
This activity perfectly supports the Council’s Climate Change and Nature Strategy, particularly our aim to protect and enhance nature across the borough.
To participate, visit www.bigbutterflycount.org or download the app. Identification charts are available to help recognise different species and discover more about East Staffordshire’s beautiful butterfly spotting locations at www.discovereaststaffs.co.uk
Did you know? Butterflies are often called “the pulse of nature” because they react quickly to environmental changes, making them excellent early warning indicators for biodiversity loss.
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For further information or to arrange a photo opportunity, please contact:
Corporate and Commercial
East Staffordshire Borough Council
Tel: 01283 508272
Email: communications@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk
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