A butterfly charity has urged the public to improve their mental health by enjoying nature as it wakes up in the spring.
Butterfly Conservation has highlighted that one of the best ways to look after your mental health is by spending time in your garden or outdoor spaces.
Richard Fox, associate director of recording and research at the organisation has also indicated the importance of checking on butterfly numbers in the months ahead.
He said: “There are a surprising number of species of butterfly which are coming out of hibernation ready for spring.
“In just the last few days, we have had recorded sightings of Brimstone, Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell and Red Admiral all getting active as the weather is warming.
“The three common white butterflies (large, small and green-veined) have also all been sighted already this year in the UK and before long it will be possible to see Orange Tips and Speckled Wood, both of which are early flying butterflies.
“We’ve not had any recorded sightings yet, but we’d love to receive one!
“The Holly Blue is the only blue butterfly that people are likely to see in their gardens in suburban or urban areas, which should be flying before too long.
“There are moths flying at night too, though they are a little harder to see in large numbers before the weather starts really warming up.”
Butterfly Conservation’s chief executive Julie Williams said: “While it’s crucial that we all stay safe and take steps to keep ourselves and others physically well at the moment, it’s also important that we take care of our mental health too.
“Anxiety, isolation and feeling stuck at home can have detrimental effects for our mental health and we’re encouraging anyone who can access an outdoor space to take a break in nature, while respecting the guidance on social distancing.
Stephen Buckley, Head of Information at Mind, the mental health charity, said: “We know being told to stay indoors and avoid others can be a very daunting prospect.
“There are a variety of things you can do to maintain wellbeing in these circumstances, one of which is engaging with nature and green space.
“In this time of social distancing, we welcome Butterfly Conservation’s suggestion of taking time to watch for the first spring butterflies.
“Even something as simple as going to a local public park or sitting by a window to watch butterflies can be beneficial to our mental health.”