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...

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...

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...

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Events diary

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Recent sightings

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Photo gallery

A brown butterfly with orange, black and white markings on a pink flower
Long-tailed Blue. Photo: Tracy Whincup

"It was great to spot a Long-tailed Blue at Southbourne yesterday, 09/10/2025 and my husband Gary managed to get a slight open wing shot confirming that it was a female." Read more...

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Species spotlight

Two very small butterflies on a leaf, one with wings open and one with wings shut; both look greyish in colour See profile

Small Blue

  • Family: Blues
  • Size: Small  Wingspan: 24mm
  • Regional priority: Medium

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