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Inspiration • July 21st, 2026
|Families and nature lovers in Leeds are invited to join a fun and educational event as part of the Big Butterfly Count 2026. Organised by the national wildlife charity, Butterfly Conservation, this initiative aims to involve the community in counting butterflies and contributing to vital data that helps protect these beautiful insects.
What Is the Big Butterfly Count?
The Big Butterfly Count is an annual event that encourages people across the UK to spend time outdoors and observe butterflies. By simply counting the number of butterflies and moths seen in a designated area for just 15 minutes, participants can help scientists gather important information on butterfly populations. This data is crucial for understanding how these species are affected by climate change, habitat loss, and other environmental factors.
Upcoming Events in Leeds
As part of the Big Butterfly Count 2026, a series of free, family-friendly butterfly-spotting events will be held in Leeds over the next two weeks. The first event will take place at Temple Newsam on Thursday, 23rd July 2026, from 11 am to 1:30 pm. Other events are scheduled as follows:
Tuesday, 28th July: 11 am - 12 pm, Rein Park
Thursday, 30th July: 11 am - 1 pm, Middleton Park
Sunday, 2nd August: 11 am - 12 pm, Wortley Recreation Ground
Thursday, 6th August: 11 am - 1 pm, Roundhay Park
These events are designed for everyone, making it a perfect opportunity for families to engage with nature and learn more about local wildlife.
Why It Matters
Butterflies are not just lovely to look at; they are also important indicators of the health of our environment.
Josh Shaw, who is leading the Leeds Wild Spaces project in collaboration with Leeds City Council, expressed the value of these events by saying:
"These events are so much fun - we always get to meet interesting new people, and they are always so amazed by how many different beautiful butterflies you can see just flying around parks in the centre of the city."
He also noted that spending time in green spaces can significantly benefit mental health, making this event a win-win for participants.
Getting Involved
To participate in the Big Butterfly Count, individuals can download the free Big Butterfly Count app or visit the official website at www.bigbutterflycount.org. The event runs from Friday, 17th July to Sunday, 9th August 2026. Participants simply need to:
Choose a sunny outdoor space.
Spend 15 minutes counting the butterflies and day-flying moths they see.
Log their sightings on the app or website.
No prior knowledge of butterflies is necessary, as the app provides a helpful identification guide.
Community Impact
The Big Butterfly Count is more than just a fun activity; it plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. The data collected helps scientists understand which species are thriving and which are struggling. This information is vital for planning conservation strategies and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of butterflies.
Earlier this year, West Yorkshire residents voted for their favourite butterfly, and the results were exciting. The brightly-coloured Peacock butterfly topped the poll, followed closely by the Red Admiral, Orange-tip, Painted Lady, and Holly Blue. This local engagement highlights the community's connection to nature and their commitment to preserving it.
With the Big Butterfly Count just around the corner, it is a fantastic opportunity for families in Leeds to get involved in a meaningful activity that combines fun, education, and environmental conservation. Whether it’s at Temple Newsam or one of the other beautiful parks in the area, taking part in this event can inspire a love for nature and a commitment to protecting it. So, grab the family, head to a local park, and join in the quest to count butterflies!
