Butterfly lovers across Tyne and Wear are being encouraged to back their favourite fluttering garden visitor as the race to crown Britain’s Favourite Butterfly enters its final few days.
With less than a week left to vote, three colourful favourites are currently leading the way in our region.
Sitting at the top of the leaderboard is the striking Red Admiral, loved for its jet-black wings, bold red bands and white-tipped spots. Close behind is the Peacock butterfly, famous for its vibrant eye-catching markings, while the cheerful Orange-tip has fluttered into third place thanks to its distinctive tangerine-coloured wing tips.
The nationwide vote is the first of its kind from wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation.
The UK is home to 60 species of butterfly, but sadly around 80% have declined over the last 50 years due to habitat loss, changes in land use and climate change. Butterfly Conservation hopes the campaign will encourage people of all ages to appreciate these much-loved insects and feel inspired to help protect local wildlife.
And there’s another reason to keep an eye out this summer as scientific studies have shown that spending just 15 minutes watching butterflies can help people feel more connected to nature.
Kate Merry, Head of Engagement at Butterfly Conservation, said: “The response to Britain’s Favourite Butterfly has been absolutely wonderful, and we’re not surprised. It’s clear that people across Tyne and Wear have incredibly strong feelings about the butterflies they love.”
Voting closes on Sunday 7th June 2026, with the winning butterfly set to be revealed later in the month. You can cast your vote online at britainsfavouritebutterfly.co.uk.
Image: Tim Melling
