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
Two orange butterflies with black, white and yellow markings
Mating Dark Green Fritillaries. Photo: Rev’d Jeremy Oates

Butterfly walkers needed in Purbeck

We have had a request from Darren Cook of the National Trust for transect walkers on three sites, all in Purbeck. Read more...

Picture of front cover of newsletter

Newsletter now available

We apologise to members for the delay in getting out our newsletter. Read more...

Orange butterfly with marks in black and yellow, with small blue eye spots round the edges
Small Tortoishell on Aster Frikartii Monch. Photo: Lyn Pullen

Farewell to Kathie Clarke

Those of you who have been around us for a while will remember Kathie and Richard Clarke from when they ran our sales stall. Kathie has passed away, and there will be a Thanksgiving  service Read more...

Two brownish and orange butterflies with white and black markings on a green leaf
Duke of Burgundy. Photo: Tracy Whincup

Butterfly monitors urgently needed for central Dorset

We have two important sites for butterflies which need more people to monitor them, and both are hilly, so you can count butterflies and get fit at the same time! Read more...

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Events diary

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Recent sightings

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Photo gallery

Large moth with wings outpread in shades of brown, orange and white with large eye spots on its forewings.
Emperor Moth. Photo: Mark Woodley

This male Emperor Moth would have measured around 3 inches (80mm) across! Read more...

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Species spotlight

Small orange butterfly on a grass seedhead See profile

Small Skipper

  • Family: Skippers
  • Size: Small  Wingspan: 30mm
  • Regional priority: Low

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

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

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