Official Statistics: Point of first release: statistics on abundance of UK butterflies

Trends of UK butterfly species are based on results of the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS), presented at UK level, and at country level where there are sufficient data. The UKBMS helps the UK to meet its obligations under the European Habitats Directive (for Marsh Fritillary and Large Blue), and to report on, implement or deliver country biodiversity strategies and biodiversity indicators.
The UKBMS is run by Butterfly Conservation, the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, and the British Trust for Ornithology, in partnership with a consortium of government agencies. The UKBMS is indebted to all volunteers who contribute data to the scheme.