The Big Butterfly Count has returned for 2022 and Bushy and Richmond park goers can play their part during the month-long event.

The count is a nationwide citizen survey which runs from the 15th July – 7th August by the Butterfly Conservation Society aiming to help assess the health of the environment.

It was launched in 2010 and has rapidly become the world's biggest survey of butterflies.

Over 107,000 citizen scientists took part in 2021, submitting 152, 039 counts of butterflies and day-flying moths from across the UK.

Those interested can download the conservation's ID chart or free app on the IOS or Android store which they can then use to identify and record butterflies they spot.

A total of 15 minutes is all that is required for the butterfly and moth watching and with both Bushy and Richmond park a hot spot for each, both parklands pose as the perfect location for a day out in the sunshine whilst partaking in the annual event.

Once your count is completed you are then able to add your total online, or via your downloaded app, and view the interactive map to see how your data is contributing to conservation and science research.

The public can also take part in fixed positions such as their gardens. Those taking part from home should count the maximum number of each species you see at a single time.

Those counting on a walk, should simply total up the number of each butterfly species they see during the 15 minutes.

The Butterfly Conservation's ID chart will aid those taking part in identifying the varying butterflies they spot.

Multiple counts are also encouraged, users are able to submit separate records for different dates at the same place and for different places that are visited.

Butterflies play a vital role in the ecosystem as both pollinators and components of the food chain however they are now under severe threat.

The number of butterflies and moths in the UK have decreased significantly since the 1970s and their decline can also be an indicator for other wildlife losses.

The Butterfly Count is therefore crucial in helping the fight to conserve the nature of our world.

Sir David Attenborough, Chris Packham and Nick Baker are a number of celebrity enthusiasts who will be taking part in the count.

For more information, visit the Buttery Conservation's site here.