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
Six shots of girls enjoying butterfly activities in a hall
Girls of the 3rd Christchurch Brownie pack

Butterflies for Brownies

Our indefatigable Chair, Steve Brown, spent an evening with the 3rd Christchurch Brownie pack recently. Read more...

An orange butterfly with some black markings and a white fringe to the wings on a green leaf
Large Copper. Photo: Pete Lewis

Rare Butterfly spotted in Dorchester

We at Dorset BC have just been sent a most unexpected photo – Read more...

An orange butterfly with black and white markings on some green vegetation
Painted Lady. Photo: Mark Pike

Painted Ladies galore

We are seeing a magnificent number of Painted Ladies being reported to us: 961 in the last seven days! Read more...

An orange and brown butterfly with a white fringe to the wings and black markings on a green plant
Glanville Fritillary. Photo: Tracy Whincup

Glanville Fritillary, Compton Down

Tracy took these photos of Glanville Fritillaries at Compton Down on 08/05/2026 and sent them in as she had noticed Read more...

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Events diary

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Recent sightings

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Photo gallery

A brown butterfly with white markings on a green leaf
White Admiral. Photo: Christine Ireland

"I was so excited to see 4 White Admirals nectaring on bramble in Uddens near West Moors. So good to know they're there!" Read more...

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Species spotlight

Orange butterfly with black markings perched on a branch See profile

Large Tortoiseshell

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

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

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