The vibrant peacock butterfly has been crowned the UK’s favourite butterfly in a new poll conducted by conservationists.
Its distinctive “eye-spots” and striking colours, which serve as a defence mechanism, helped it secure the top position among 59 British species.
The poll, run by Butterfly Conservation, received over 20,000 votes, with the orange-tip, red admiral, holly blue and brimstone butterflies completing the top five.
The charity, which declared a “butterfly emergency” in 2024 due to record low numbers, is urging the public to participate in this year’s Big Butterfly Count.
The Big Butterfly Count runs from 17 July to 9 August, encouraging people to spend 15 minutes counting butterflies and day-flying moths to aid conservation efforts.
