Threatened Species Surveyor – Northern Brown Argus (Dumfries & Galloway)
Available from 27/05/2026 to 27/11/2026
As part of our Species on the Edge project in Dumfries and Galloway, we are looking for people to help survey for the Northern Brown Argus, a butterfly on our threatened species list. This data is used to inform decisions which help to conserve butterflies and moths, both locally and nationally.
Surveys for the butterfly can be conducted along the coast between late May and August each year. Full training on survey method and ongoing support is available.
Our conservation work depends on us knowing how butterfly and moth populations are doing, and we are lucky to have over forty years' worth of data collected by volunteers to help us in our mission to conserve butterflies and moths.
At Butterfly Conservation, we want to create a world where butterflies and moths are enjoyed by everyone, forever.
More about this role
Volunteer role: Threatened Species Surveyor – Northern Brown Argus.
Volunteer manager: Conservation Manager, Landscape Officer or Ecologist.
Where you will be based: Outdoors.
Why we want you: To support and input into Butterfly Conservation’s recording and monitoring projects for the Northern Brown Argus.
What you will be doing
* Identify the species (including use of BC apps such as iRecord Butterflies).
* Conduct regular or ad‑hoc surveys for the Northern Brown Argus at one or many locations.
* Seek assistance/advice in identifying species as appropriate.
The skills you need
* Ability to identify the species at a level appropriate to the relevant survey or scheme.
* Desire to learn and improve identification skills.
* Understanding of the basic attributes of a biological record.
* Own transport required to access survey locations, if required (depends on area and scheme).
What's in it for you
* Develop or apply your knowledge of the Northern Brown Argus and the environment.
* Contribute directly to the scientific knowledge base of our butterflies in the UK.
* Improve your identification skills.
* Improve your understanding of the distribution and ecology of species encountered.
* Increase your social circle with like‑minded people, boosting your wellbeing.
Disclaimer
The amount of time the role takes will vary according to each scheme. Most people spend a couple of hours a week in this role, but you can do as much or as little as you like. We ask that you commit to a minimum of six months in this role and complete training when you start. May involve accessing steep slopes, uneven ground, or remote sites. Please check with the named contact for this opportunity. Children aged 13‑15 must be accompanied by an adult whilst volunteering. If you are aged 16 or 17, your parent may give written permission for you to volunteer. Please be aware that our insurance cover differs slightly for people aged 75 or over. Please contact the Volunteering Team for more information. Photo credit: Iain Leach.
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