I’d like to invite you to take part in the world’s biggest citizen science project – the big butterfly count 2016, which will take place between 15th July – 7th August.
Whilst the counting period falls over the summer holidays, we’ve created four activities that will help pupils to learn about eco-systems, sustainability, life-cycles, conservation and why the big butterfly count is so crucial.
This summer term, your class could:
- Transform old magazinesinto keepsake bowls whilst exploring symmetry and colour
- Whip up frozen yoghurt lolliesto enjoy outside
- Craft talesfrom the perspective of a newly emerged butterfly and the adventures it might have
- Become butterfly detectives, then make an animation to showcase their discoveries.
Why butterflies? And why should you take part?
Butterflies react very quickly to change in their environment which makes them excellent biodiversity indicators. Butterfly declines are an early warning for other wildlife losses. That’s why counting butterflies can be described as taking the pulse of nature – and we need your help to ensure the big butterfly count covers as much of the UK as possible. Click here to find out how to get involved.
We hope you enjoy using these activities, and please forward to colleagues who may find them useful too.
Kind regards,
| Shanthini Carrick Manager, Sustainable CommunitiesThe big butterfly count is a survey run by the Butterfly Conservation. John Lewis is proud to support it this year. |