Butterflies need us to mow lawns less, experts say

Gardeners are being urged to resist mowing their entire lawns in efforts to support struggling butterfly populations.

Last year was one of the worst years on record for butterflies, according to the results of Butterfly Conservation's Big Butterfly Count.

Experts at the organisation say mixed lengths of grass are best for providing food and shelter, ideally with naturally occuring plants such as dandelions left to flower.

Robin Griffiths, part of the Wiltshire branch of Butterfly Conservation, said: "When you mow your lawn, don't mow it all. To mow the lawn completely and regularly through the summer does very little for insects."