Scotland makes up about 33% of the UK, but has less than 10% of the population. It has vast areas of unspoilt countryside exist outside of the Central Belt, where most people live.

There are large populations of species, like the Pearl-bordered Fritillary, which are threatened by habitat loss elsewhere in the UK.

But there are relatively few people on the ground identifying important colonies and monitoring trends.

Scotland's upland and northern species such as Large Heath, Mountain Ringlet, Mountain Burnet and Northern Dart are very important in the UK.

Other important Scottish species are those that need large areas of habitat, like the Marsh Fritillary and the Kentish Glory moth.

Urban areas and brownfield sites also have value for declining UK species such as Small Blue and Grayling.

Pressure on Scotland's butterflies, moths and other wildlife is significant. Much agricultural land is managed intensively, and there is little support for wildlife-friendly farming.

Development for housing, energy, recreation and transport is destroying key habitats. Plantation forestry and peat extraction are causing losses at a local scale.

Butterfly Conservation Scotland works to preserve habitats for butterflies, moths and other species.

In this section you can view further information about our conservation projects in Scotland.

If you have seen a Peacock butterfly in Scotland, help us map its current distribution it by sending us your sightings.

We are grateful to the many funders of our work in Scotland and especially the long-running support of Scottish Natural Heritage