A REPORT about the butterflies found in the region shows that some species are increasing, while others are in decline.

Butterflies of North East England describes the status, distribution, habitats and future outlook for 33 species that are regularly found and additional information about 17 extinct or migrant species.

It is the result of thousands of hours of survey work by volunteers who have been trying to record where the different butterflies are found in the North-East during 1995-2013.

The report compares their findings with previous information to assess whether the population of each species is increasing or declining.

Several butterflies, including the Speckled Wood, Wall and Comma were found in our region until the second half of the 19th century when they became largely extinct.

But in the last 30 years they have made a come-back.

It is thought that bad weather in the 19th century wiped them out and that recent warming of the climate has enabled them to return.

Jim Cokill, chief executive of Durham Wildlife Trust, said: “The trust took the lead in saving the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary from extinction in the county and so far we have been successful, but there is much more to do. “This report is an excellent way of celebrating successes and also focusing our attention on new challenges.

“If people want to continue to enjoy butterflies across our towns and countryside we all need to think more about the world we want to live in.

“No habitats, be they meadows, brownfield sites or a patch of nettles in your garden, no butterflies.”