Sussex has crowned the Peacock as its favourite butterfly, and now residents are being urged to help find out how the much-loved species is faring this summer.
Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation says the Peacock topped the county’s leaderboard and also took the national title of Britain’s Favourite Butterfly in the first-ever vote covering all 60 UK butterfly species.
Sussex’s top five was completed by the Red Admiral in second place, the Brimstone in third, the Orange-tip in fourth and the bright orange Comma in fifth.
The charity is now calling on people across the county to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count, which runs from Friday, 17 July to Sunday, 9 August.
The world’s largest butterfly survey asks people to spend 15 minutes outdoors in a sunny spot, count the butterflies and day-flying moths they see, and submit their sightings through the free app or at www.bigbutterflycount.org.
Butterfly Conservation’s Head of Engagement, Kate Merry, said: “It’s been wonderful to see so many people in Sussex get behind their favourite butterflies in the vote. Now we want that passion to turn into action!
“The Big Butterfly Count starts on Friday 17 July and we’d love residents to be ready and waiting to help paint a picture of how butterflies and moths are doing across the county.”
This year’s count comes after Butterfly Conservation declared a butterfly emergency in 2024, when numbers fell to their lowest level in the survey’s history.
Around 80% of UK butterfly species have declined over the past 50 years, due to habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use.
Kate Merry added: “Butterflies are key indicators of the UK’s biodiversity and environmental health, so every single person that takes part and submits their sightings is helping us to see how these vital pollinators are doing, which in turn helps conservationists build a wider picture of how all butterflies and moths are faring.
“It’s easy, fun for all the family, and a great excuse to get outside and experience the simple joy of spotting butterflies. Download the app, mark the date, and get ready to get out for the Count!”
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