New initiative launched to help Newquay become butterfly friendly

A NEW initiative has been launched to help Newquay become butterfly and moth friendly.

Newquay’s Climate Action Network is working with Newquay Town Council to become accredited as a butterfly friendly council, which is a campaign spearheaded by Butterfly Conservation.

The authority is calling on the community to take part in the Big Butterfly Count to help its bid to receive the status. The annual citizen science project is being held up until August 9.

Deputy mayor Cllr Sarah Thomson said: “No doubt you will have noticed the surge in butterfly numbers in this hot sunny weather. I was out in the garden admiring the clouds of butterflies I have on my verbena, marjoram and buddleia.

“This year has seen a huge surge in the Painted Lady butterfly, an amazing migrant that makes the long journey from North Africa to our shores along with the Hummingbird hawk moth; a miracle I feel for such small fragile-looking insects. I also have seen quite a few Peacocks, which has just been voted the national favourite, Red Admiral, Comma, Wall Brown, Gate Keeper and Meadow Brown.

“What would really help us in the bid for Newquay to become accredited as a Butterfly friendly council is to do the Big Butterfly Count.

“it takes 15 minutes of time to note down the butterfly species and their numbers in your garden or out for a walk. A great activity to do with the family. All you need is at the Butterfly Conservation website, Big Butterfly Count. All results can then be seen on an interactive map.

“Anyone who would like more local information about helping butterflies and moths then please contact the Butterfly Conservation Cornwall Branch.

“Let’s show that Newquay cares about its butterflies and wants to help.”