The red admiral butterfly population is soaring with a whopping 400% increase in the UK, thanks to warmer winters caused by climate change. The insect, which typically migrates to and from North Africa and continental Europe, is choosing to overwinter in the UK. Now, scientists from Butterfly Conservation have recorded 170,000 sightings, leading them to believe that the UK could become a permanent home for the species. Dr. Zoë Randle, a senior surveys officer at Butterfly Conservation, says, "We've been surprised to see the red admiral taking the lead. However, with the increased frequency of warm weather, the UK may well become a permanent home for this species." Counting butterflies helps researchers understand how climate change is affecting insects. Hence, they are encouraging everyone to participate in the Big Butterfly Count which concludes on Sunday.
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