Welcome
The county of Cumbria is located where the boundaries of southern and northern species of butterfly overlap which goes some way to explaining why 41 species are recorded, rather high for a county this far north.
We have the Mountain Ringlet and Scotch Argus that cannot be seen anywhere else south of the Scottish border. Large Heath is found on the Solway and Morecambe Bay Mosses, the Small Blue is present on Brownfield sites on the west coast and Marsh Fritillary fly on a few grassland sites in the north and west.
The limestone woodlands and grasslands bordering Morecambe Bay are the UK stronghold of the rare High Brown Fritillary and are also home to Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Northern Brown Argus, Silver-washed Fritillary and Duke of Burgundy butterflies.
Species to look out for
Learn more
Submit your sightings
Let us know what you have seen.
See our latest sightings
View the latest butterfly and day-flying moth sightings in Cumbria.
Get involved
News
-
Two thousand children to create wild spaces for butterflies and moths at school
Project will offer mental and physical health benefits for pupils and help vulnerable wildlife survive nature and climate crisis.
-
Counting butterflies reduces anxiety – new study proves
Leading wildlife charity, Butterfly Conservation, has today revealed that counting butterflies reduces anxiety by almost 10%, in new scientific research published in collaboration with the University of Derby.
-
Free Wills Month
By leaving a gift in your Will, you’ll ensure your legacy can contribute to a solution to the climate crisis, creating an environment that nurtures butterflies and moths for future generations to enjoy.
-
Landmark discovery in Kent gives hope for rare moth population
Leading wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation is celebrating the discovery of a new breeding group of rare White-spotted Sable moth near Canterbury.
Events
-
Cumbria: Conservation Work Party at Holme Stinted Pasture, Burton-in-Kendal 27 March 2024
Wednesday 27th March 2024, 10:00am-3:30pm
Holme Stinted Pasture Clawthorpe
Continuation of removal of gorse, cutting and burning
Volunteer with us
Butterfly Conservation relies on the support of thousands of volunteers, and we are always looking for more help inside the office and out in the field. Whether you want to volunteer at a local branch, get outside and help manage our nature reserves, or help with one of our events, we have something for everyone to get involved in! Your time can make a real difference.
Branch information
In your area
Contact branch
- Chairman:
Chris Winnick - Treasurer:
David Eastlick