Welcome
The Upper Thames Branch covers Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, which includes the beautiful rolling hills of the Chilterns. It is home to several rare species of butterfly and moth, including the Black Hairstreak, Adonis Blue, Silver-spotted Skipper and the Striped Lychnis.
If you live in the region and are a member of Butterfly Conservation you automatically become a member of the Upper Thames branch.
Species to look out for
Find out more
Butterfly sightings
Send us your sightings and find out what has been spotted near you.
Moth sightings
Take a look at the moths you could find in your area, and send your sightings to our moth recorders.
Get involved
News
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Species on the Edge launches with the Small Blues at Logie Quarry
A new and exciting conservation project called Species on the Edge will launch at a free family fun day event hosted by Butterfly Conservation Scotland at Logie Quarry, near Tain, on Saturday 3 June.
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Butterflies find safe haven in UK gardens, new research reveals
New research published by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) reveals how the UK's gardens are acting as a safe haven for butterflies.
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Europe's grassland butterflies in steep decline
A new report on the trends of grassland butterflies across Europe has shown numbers have declined by 36% over the last decade.
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Coul Links - again!
If you have been following the saga of Coul Links in East Sutherland you will know that the original proposal for a golf course was turned down by the Scottish Government. In July last year another application was submitted. Here's an update on our objection.
Events
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An Upper Thames Branch Guided Walk at Wytham Woods. Leader: Peter Philp.
Saturday 5th August 2023, 10:30am-1:00pm
Wytham Woods, Oxfordshire
A walk to see and identify high-summer butterflies, maybe even White-letter Hairstreak.
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An Upper Thames Branch Training Walk at Colstrope Farm, led by Nick Bowles and Charles Flower
Saturday 12th August 2023, 10:00am-2:00pm
Colstrop Farm, Hambleden, near Henley-on-Thames
A 5 kilometre walk across this Chiltern farm during which Charles and Nick will explain the management work that is improving the area for butterflies.
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An Upper Thames Branch Guided Walk at Aston Rowant, led by Peter Philp
Sunday 13th August 2023, 10:30am-1:00pm
Aston Rowant NNR
We will explore the fabulous array of grassland flowers and butterflies on this 'flagship' NNR.
Volunteer with us
Butterfly Conservation relies on the support of thousands of volunteers, and we are always looking for more help inside the office and out in the field. Whether you want to volunteer at a local branch, get outside and help manage our nature reserves, or help with one of our events, we have something for everyone to get involved in! Your time can make a real difference.
Branch information
Reserves
In your area
Contact branch
- Chairman
Nick Bowles - Honorary Secretary & Branch Contact
Dave Wilton