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
Group of people sitting on the ground in a grassy field with a rainbow in the background
Work party on Cerne Giant Hill December 2025. Photo: Steve Brown

Help buy Cerne Abbas Giant Hill

Cerne Giant Hill, while known for its giant picture of a giant on the hillside, is a great butterfly site, and we have just had the excellent news that the National Trust is hoping to buy it – but they need help raising the money. Read more...

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...

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...

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...

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Events diary

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Recent sightings

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Photo gallery

A dark brown, black and reddish orange butterfly with black and white markings on red Rose Hips
Red Admiral. Photo: Jane Hopper

"I was pleasantly surprised to see this glorious Red Admiral feeding on the rose hips this morning, 21/11/2025, in our Chalmington garden when there was still lots of frost on the ground.  Like me it seems to be enjoying the sunshine!" Read more...

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Species spotlight

A green butterfly with a small line of white streaks on the underside of its hindwing See profile

Green Hairstreak

  • Family: Coppers and Hairstreaks
  • Size: Small  Wingspan: 33mm
  • Regional priority: Low

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