Working to save Dorset's butterflies and moths

75% of British butterflies and 66% of common moths have declined in living memory. Our efforts include conservation work, monitoring butterflies and moths, and raising awareness of the problems they face. There are lots of ways you can help.  Find out more

For Butterfly Conservation’s national HQ visit butterfly-conservation.org
Side view of small butterfly with strong white markings on a rich brown background
Duke of Burgundy. Photo: Shona Refoy

Help Dorset’s endangered Dukes

The Duke of Burgundy is one of the most endangered butterfly species in Dorset, and we are looking for help with practical conservation work at various sites in central Dorset. Martin Warren, ex Chief Executive of Butterfly Conservation will be leading the project. Read more...

Posted: 28 October 2025
Two butterflies - one orange and black and yellow markings
Marsh Fritillary and Duke of Burgundy. Photo: Luc Mitchem

Annual Members’ Meeting

Our AMM will be held in Cerne Abbas on Saturday 8 November – see our Events page for full details. You may be able to help… Read more...

Posted: 6 October 2025
A blue butterfly with a white fringe to the wings crossed by thin black lines on a purple flower
Adonis Blue. ab puncta. Photo: Mark Pike

Three different Adonis Blues at Ballard Down

Apart from many “standard specimens” there, Mark's keen eye spotted two male aberrations. Read more...

Posted: 1 September 2025
A silvery blue butterfly with black and white markings on a pink flower
Chalkhill Blue. Photo: Roy Norris

Chalkhill Blues on Portland

Georgie Laing tells us that Chalkhill Blue numbers on Portland are amazing at the moment, but may they not last much longer.  She says: “to see them Read more...

Posted: 3 August 2025
View all

Events diary

View all

Recent sightings

Report a sighting
View all

Photo gallery

Red and green moth with geometrical pattern to wings
Red-green Carpet. Photo: Paul Harris

Paul tells us this Red-green carpet was his first this year in his Weymouth trap on 30th October. Read more...

View all

Species spotlight

Whtie butterfly with black tips to wings on a bright pink flower See profile

Large White

  • Family: Whites
  • Size: Large  Wingspan: 67mm
  • Regional priority: Low

Join now Join Butterfly Conservation to help us save butterflies, moths and habitats.

DonateMake a donation to help us with our work to save butterflies and moths*.

*Donations received via this link will come to Dorset Branch.

Our promise to you:

  • We will never swap, sell or rent your details to anyone.
  • We will always follow the strict code of conduct set out by the Fundraising Regulator.
  • You can change how you hear from us or unsubscribe from our mailing lists at any time, just let us know.