Welcome to the Upper Thames Branch of Butterfly Conservation

Founded in 1982, the Upper Thames Branch aims to protect butterflies, moths and their habitats in the counties of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. The rolling hills of the Chilterns, the Oxford and Aylesbury clay vales, the ancient Bernwood Forest complex, the edge of the Cotswolds and the heathlands of south-east Berkshire are all to be found in the three counties. Several rare species of lepidoptera can be found in the region, including the Black Hairstreak, Adonis Blue, Silver-spotted Skipper and Duke of Burgundy butterflies, and the Striped Lychnis and Heart moths.
 
The Branch is entirely run by volunteers. If you think you may be able to help us in any way please click here to find out more.
The programme for the 2024 Members' Day on 26th October has been finalised. Please click here for details.
Holtspur Bottom is closed until mid-December while sheep are on site.
Butterflies
Three-quarters of the fifty-eight British butterfly species can be found in the Upper Thames region. More about butterflies
Moths
Over 1700 species of moth have been recorded in the Upper Thames region. More about moths
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Events
20-Oct: Work party : Aston Upthorpe Downs, Oxon
22-Oct: Work Party (Chiltern Rangers) : Winchester Wood, Bucks
26-Oct: Branch Members Day : Benson, Oxon
28-Oct: Work Party (Chiltern Rangers) : Sands Bank LNR, Bucks