Our brilliant butterflies

Beautiful and beneficial to the planet, it's no wonder these delicate creatures get us all in a flutter

- LOUISE MIDGLEY

July is the perfect time of year to see butterflies and day-flying moths, as many are now at the adult stage of their life cycle. These quivering beauties live for around two weeks as adults (although some species live only a couple of days), and are members of the Lepidoptera family, one of our most diverse and fascinating insect orders. Butterflies and moths react quickly to environmental changes, so if you see them in your garden, it's a great sign of a healthy ecosystem. Here are a few to look out for.

Jersey Tiger moth

While resting, this shieldshaped, day-and-nightflying moth displays unusual tiger-striped outer wings. Catch it openwinged and its flamboyant orangey/red petticoat is revealed. The population of this species is on the rise; it has strongholds in the south of the country and is gradually spreading northwards. Other handsome tigers to look out for in your garden include the Ruby Tiger moth and the Garden Tiger moth.

Holly Blue

This lovely butterfly is a frequent visitor to gardens with holly and ivy, as the flower buds of these plants are a preferred food source for its larvae. Both the males and females have the palest silvery blue underwings that are speckled with tiny black spots, making them difficult to see when they're resting with closed wings.

SIX-SPOT BURNET MOTH

This striking day-flying moth is easily spotted feeding in flowery grasslands on knapweed, thistles and scabious wild flowers, from June to August.