Saving the British Swallowtail Butterfly
Protecting one of the UK’s most endangered species.
The British Swallowtail Butterfly is the UK’s largest and most critically endangered butterfly. Our British Swallowtail Butterfly conservation work focuses on restoring the fragile wetland habitats it depends on in the Norfolk Broads and across East Anglia.
Why the British Swallowtail Butterfly Is at Risk
Once found more widely across East Anglia, the British Swallowtail is now restricted to the Norfolk Broads.
Its survival depends entirely on one plant: Milk Parsley.
This rare wetland species grows only in specific fen and marsh conditions. As rising sea levels affect salinity and habitat quality, Milk Parsley struggles to thrive. When the plant declines, the butterfly follows.
This delicate ecological relationship means the future of the swallowtail depends on the health of its habitat.
Protecting the butterfly means protecting the ecosystem.
Our Conservation Approach
Working alongside Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, Nature’s SAFE and local grassroots conservation partners, Space for the Wild is helping to strengthen and expand this fragile wetland system.
Our work includes:
- Cryogenic preservation of swallowtail eggs to safeguard genetic diversity
- Cultivating and strengthening Milk Parsley to increase resilience
- Establishing Milk Parsley in connected sites across East Anglia
- Supporting breeding programmes to improve population stability
- Re-establishing colonies where habitat conditions allow
This is conservation grounded in science and long-term planning.
The Butterfly Effect
Small, localised actions can create significant change.
By protecting one plant, we protect one species.
By reconnecting habitats, we build resilience.
By acting early, we prevent extinction.
The swallowtail is more than a butterfly. It is a symbol of how fragile ecosystems can recover when given space and support.
Why This Matters Beyond One Species
Wetlands support far more than butterflies.
They protect biodiversity, store carbon, reduce flood risk and provide habitat for countless insects, birds and mammals.
Safeguarding the British Swallowtail strengthens the wider ecosystem of the Norfolk Broads and contributes to long-term biodiversity resilience across East Anglia.
This project demonstrates how focused conservation can deliver broader environmental benefit.
Let’s Work Together
We believe conservation is strongest when delivered through collaboration.
If your organisation shares our commitment to protecting endangered species and restoring natural habitats, we would welcome a conversation.