Welcome
Welcome to the Northern Ireland Branch of Butterfly Conservation, which was first formed in 1988 and currently has more than 300 members.
If you live in the region and are a member of Butterfly Conservation you automatically become a member of the Northern Ireland branch.
Northern Ireland is home to around 1000 species of moth and 25 species of butterfly, with almost half of these being priority species.
One of these, the Cryptic Wood White (thought to be Real's Wood White until recent research proved it to be a new species entirely) is only found in Northern Ireland. Craigavon Lakes Local Nature Reserve in County Armagh is the very best place to visit to see this butterfly on the wing during May and June.
Species to look out for
Get involved
Volunteering
Volunteers are hugely important to Butterfly Conservation. Getting involved with surveying and monitoring butterfly and moth species in your garden or out in the wider landscape directly helps inform our work and projects.
Branch events
Butterfly Conservation Northern Ireland’s Branch run events throughout the year, mirroring the season that’s in it. From summer field trips, winter talks and lectures to practical conservation, the varied and interesting programme is worth investigating and everyone is welcome.
Do it yourself
There is an awful lot that you can do yourself, or with your friends and family for butterflies, moths and the environment. Starting at home, in your community or workplace makes your practice more sustainable in every sense and your projects are more likely to succeed too.
Find out more
News
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The ‘bog squad’ celebrates six years of success in protecting Scotland's peatlands
Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation celebrates six years of the incredibly successful ‘Bog Squad’ initiative this March.
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Who will protect the protectors?
Butterfly Conservation are shocked and deeply saddened at the recent murders of Mexican butterfly activists Homero Gómez González and Raúl Hernández Romero.
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Agriculture Bill: A Big Day for Farming and Wildlife
The long-awaited publication of a landmark Agriculture Bill in parliament is a crucial piece of legislation which will have profound implications for the butterflies, moths, wildlife and wider environment of England.
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Managing land for butterflies and moths
Our work seeks to help the development of new land management support schemes by combining the latest scientific evidence and Butterfly Conservation’s practical experience of working with farmers and land owners on the ground.
Events
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Herbal Leys at the Giant’s Causeway – Cliff Henry
Tuesday 3rd March 2020, 7:30pm
St John’s Scout Hall, behind Newtownbreda Presbyterian Church off the Knockbreda Road in Belfast.
Herbal Leys at the Giant’s Causeway – Cliff Henry
Tuesday 3rd March 2020
National Trust Ranger Cliff Henry explains the demonstration project of pollinator-friendly farming next door to NI’s top tourist attraction.
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NIRD2020 Saturday 4th April, 10:00–16:00, Peatlands Park
Saturday 4th April 2020, 10:00am-4:00pm
Peatland Park, Education Centre
NIRD2020 Saturday 4th April, 10:00–16:00, Peatlands Park
Northern Ireland Recorder’s Day! Our annual pre-season get-together will include a breakdown of the data from 2019, and a chance to hear from our partners about what’s happening in the world of recording as we head into the new season.
As usual, craic, light refreshments and good company guaranteed, free of charge – just bring your own lunch! We look forward to seeing you there!
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Not a Lot of People Know… – Ian RippeyTuesday 7th April 2020
Tuesday 7th April 2020, 7:30pm-9:30pm
St John’s Scout Hall, behind Newtownbreda Presbyterian Church off the Knockbreda Road in Belfast.
Not a Lot of People Know… – Ian Rippey
Tuesday 7th April 2020
...that in excess of 50 species of butterfly have been recorded in Ireland over the years! Ian tells the stories of the lesser-known visitors and introductions to our shores.
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
Adam Mantell - Branch Contact & Membership Secretary
Claire Hempsey - Treasurer
Cliff Henry