A Dorset-based wildlife charity has revealed the number of butterflies has reached an all-time low in its annual citizen science programme.

The Butterfly Conservation has revealed very low numbers of butterflies have been spotted so far in its annual Big Butterfly Count. 

The project takes place from Friday, 12 July, until Sunday, August 4, aiming to help scientists understand how climate change is affecting butterflies.

READ MORE: Butterfly Conservation launch Big Butterfly Count 2024

Latest findings from the project has revealed that on average participants are seeing just over half the number of butterflies they were spotting this time last year.

The charity also reports that the numbers are currently the lowest recorded in the 14-year history of Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count.

A family taking part in the Big Butterfly Count 2023A family taking part in the Big Butterfly Count 2023 (Image: Butterfly Conservation)

It adds that the "unusual wet and windy spring", coupled with the colder than usual temperatures so far this summer could be contributing to the lack of butterflies.

Scientists are calling on the public in the final week of the Big Butterfly Count to get outside for 15 minutes outside when in a sunny spot and record the number and type of butterflies they see.

Dr Dan Hoare, director of conservation at Butterfly Conservation, said: “The lack of butterflies this year is a warning sign to us all.

"People are telling us that they aren’t seeing butterflies, but simply telling us is not enough.

"We need everyone to record what they are or aren’t seeing by doing a Big Butterfly Count as this will give us the evidence we need to take vital action to conserve our butterfly species.”

More information about taking part can be found on the Big Butterfly count website: www.bigbutterflycount.org