She added: “Visitors should keep their eyes open for the rare black-tailed fritillary the next time they walk through the gardens.”
Project experts said that small numbers of black-tailed fritillary butterflies cross the English Channel in most years. However, the species has not bred regularly enough in Britain to be classed as a permanent resident.
Sightings of the continental butterfly have increased in recent years. More black-tailed fritillary reports than usual have been recorded across southern England this year, with experts linking the rise closely to warmer and more favourable weather conditions.
Laura said: “I’m really happy to have discovered a rare butterfly in the UK.” Her mother, Sarah, added that she enjoyed learning about different butterfly species.
“Laura keeps a list of the butterflies she finds, and it’s a wonderful way for us to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors together,” Sarah said.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk