From 17 July to 9 August, we're encouraging residents across Amber Valley to take part in the Big Butterfly Count – the UK's biggest butterfly survey, organised by Butterfly Conservation.
Butterflies are more than just a welcome sight in our parks and gardens. They're important pollinators and one of the best indicators of a healthy natural environment.
Unfortunately, many of the UK's butterfly species are in decline, making this year's count more important than ever.
Taking part is simple:
Every count helps scientists understand how butterfly populations are changing and supports conservation work across the UK.
Looking for somewhere to take part? Why not visit one of Amber Valley's parks and green spaces, including Belper River Gardens, Crossley Park, Heanor Memorial Park, Belper Park, Crays Hill Queen Elizabeth Park, Riddings Park, Pennytown Ponds Local Nature Reserve, Alfreton Park, Alfreton Welfare or Somercotes Park.
Or simply take part from your own garden or another local green space.
Find out more, download the free butterfly identification chart or app, and submit your results by visiting the Big Butterfly Count website: https://bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org/
At Amber Valley Borough Council, we're proud to support initiatives that encourage people to connect with nature, promote local biodiversity and help protect the wildlife and green spaces that make Amber Valley such a special place.
Feeling inspired to do more for nature? If taking part in the Big Butterfly Count has inspired you to support butterflies and other wildlife, there are lots of simple ways you can help. Whether it's creating a more wildlife-friendly garden or finding out how to take action for nature locally, the following resources are a great place to start:
Contact the team directly on 01773 570222 or email enquiry@ambervalley.gov.uk
