Wildlife

Explore Portland’s biodiversity

Multiple purple flower spikes
Viper’s Bugloss

Plants

The Isle of Portland projects into the English Channel along the South Coast of England, giving it a sunny and mild climate, which is reflected in its rich flora.

Dark blue butterfly with wings open perched on yellow flower
Small Blue butterfly

Butterflies

Over half of Britain’s 58 resident butterfly species live here, because restored limestone quarries and wild flowers create a warm, protected home.

Dark grey and white birds perched on cliff ledges
Guillemots. Photo: Mark Eggleton

Birds

The Portland area is one of the best for birdwatching on England’s South Coast. Key locations include Chesil Beach, the Fleet Lagoon, and Portland Bill.