TOURISTS and residents are being urged to take part in a major butterfly monitoring project in the Yorkshire Dales.

Despite the area's relatively cool upland climate, 27 species of butterfly are regularly sighted within the National Park.

But conservationists need to learn more about the number and distribution of many species, and are asking the public to record glimpses of species such as the green hairstreak and small heath.

To make identification easier, the park authority has joined forces with English Nature and charity Butterfly Conservation to produce a leaflet.

It contains life-size colour illustrations and detailed background information about the preferred habitat of the different butterfly species.

Sightings can be recorded on recording sheets and then returned to any National Park centre or the authority's offices in Grassington and Bainbridge.

The leaflet is available from all National Park centres for a nominal fee. Recording forms can also be obtained free of charge.