A nationwide wildlife survey has revealed a modest rebound in butterfly sightings.

The 2025 Big Butterfly Count, led by Butterfly Conservation which is based in Lulworth, Dorset, recorded improved numbers following last year's record lows.

More than 125,000 people across the UK took part in the survey, spotting 1.7 million butterflies and moths between July 18 and August 10.

Dr Richard Fox, head of science at Butterfly Conservation, said: "We may feel like we've seen lots of butterflies this summer, but that's only because last year was so awful.

"Last summer's results were the lowest we've seen and a stark warning that many of our common butterfly species are facing significant pressure from challenges linked to habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use.

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On average, participants recorded 10.3 butterflies during each 15-minute count. (Image: Butterfly Conservation)

"Whilst we've seen noticeably more butterflies during 2025's Big Butterfly Count, the figures suggest it's actually been a pretty average year for them by modern standards.

"The 15-year Big Butterfly Count trends show that more than twice as many widespread species have declined significantly than have increased.

"And, while most species had a better than average summer, one-third of species fared poorly even in the generally beneficial weather."

Despite the improvement, the charity warned that long-term decline continues to threaten butterfly populations.

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Dr Fox said: "There remains a need for us to take urgent action to support our butterfly populations, including by improving the environment in which they live, restoring habitats and reducing pesticide use.

"Until we do these things we are unlikely to see a great recovery in butterfly numbers, regardless of how much the sun shines."

The most frequently recorded species during the count were the Large White, Small White, Gatekeeper, Red Admiral and Meadow Brown.

Both Large and Small Whites had their best results since the count began.

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People taking part in The Big Butterfly Count. (Image: Butterfly Conservation)

However, the Small Tortoiseshell, which hit a record low in 2024, remains in decline, down 60 per cent since 2011.

Other species struggled despite favourable conditions.

The Holly Blue recorded its second-worst result, the Common Blue its third worst and the Meadow Brown its fourth worst.

Butterfly Conservation has launched a campaign urging retailers to stop selling synthetic pesticides for domestic use.

Dr Fox said: "We are in a nature crisis. We should be providing people with the tools to help and not the means of destruction."

Supporters can sign the charity's open letter to retailers on the charity's website.