UK butterfly populations have declined significantly due to habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change, with conservation interventions improving outcomes for many species.
Butterfly welfare at the individual level is uncertain; their sentience is debated. However, at the population and ecosystem level, butterfly declines indicate broader ecosystem health deterioration. As pollinators, butterflies contribute to plant and agricultural welfare and ecosystem services. Conservation efforts that restore habitats benefit thousands of species beyond butterflies, contributing to broad ecosystem wellbeing.