The Big Butterfly Count

Our Walkfest Administrator is fascinated by butterflies and is always keen to get additional converts to his interest. We are therefore pleased to give him the chance to do a Guest Blog for us.

I am pleased Guildford Walkfest 2025 is nearly here. Even though in September the butterfly season is ending you can still see Butterflies and Bees around the flowers and trees on our walks.  Last year I encountered a swarm of bees on flowering Ivy in September.

Did you know there are 59 species of Butterfly in the UK and in Surrey we have a range of habitats that support many different species. This summer appears to have been a good year for butterflies, and I have been lucky to spot rare White Admiral butterflies on my walks around Guildford on Broad Street Common.

The Big Butterfly count is running now until 10^th August and it is easy for everyone to take part. Have a look at the website and get counting. You simply choose a place - this could be as diverse as sitting in your garden or you could stop when out on a walk. Watch for 15 minutes and make a note of what butterflies you see. Then record your findings on the app. It is good fun to take part and is an important conservation recording project to be a part of. The Butterfly conservation website provides useful advice, and species guides to help you identify what you see. https://bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org/

Join me in taking part, Ben Carter.