Your Chance to Put UK Wildlife on Our Banknotes!
Something rather tweet-worthy has landed this week. The Bank of England is inviting the public to help choose which British wildlife species could appear on the next generation of UK banknotes, and, at BrdBx, we're absolutely chirping about it.
From puffins and kingfishers to hedgehogs and bumblebees, some of Britain's most beloved wildlife could soon be sharing your wallet with King Charles. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the species that make our countryside, coastlines and gardens so special.
How the Voting Works
The Bank of England has shortlisted 18 native species and divided them into three wildlife categories. Voters can choose up to two favourites from each category before the consultation closes on 3 July 2026.
The mammal category includes some of Britain's most recognisable wildlife, including the European hedgehog, red fox, brown hare, pine marten, grey seal and bottlenose dolphin. Whether you're backing the humble hedgehog or hoping the fox can sneak ahead of the competition, there are plenty of strong contenders.
For bird lovers, the choice is no easier. The shortlist features the Atlantic puffin, barn owl, common kingfisher, Eurasian curlew, great spotted woodpecker and white-tailed eagle. At BrdBx, this is where loyalties may become a little divided. The kingfisher's dazzling colours would certainly brighten up a banknote, while the puffin has already attracted plenty of admirers. Then again, it would be hard not to give a hoot about the barn owl.
The final category brings together amphibians, insects and fish. Here you'll find the buff-tailed bumblebee, emperor dragonfly, marsh fritillary butterfly, common frog, Atlantic salmon and basking shark. The bumblebee is expected to create quite a buzz among voters, while the basking shark proves that even the largest species can quietly glide under the radar.
Why BrdBx is Wild About This Campaign
At BrdBx, helping wildlife thrive is the reason we exist.
We design and handcraft sustainable wildlife boxes for birds, bats, bugs and hedgehogs, helping people create spaces where nature can flourish. Whether it is a garden, housing development or community project, we are passionate about supporting biodiversity across the UK.
That is why this campaign has really caught our eye. It shines a spotlight on species that often need our support and reminds us that wildlife is not something that exists somewhere else. It is all around us, from the hedgehog shuffling through the garden after dark to the bumblebee hard at work among summer flowers.
Putting wildlife on our banknotes will not solve every conservation challenge overnight, but it does send an important message. It tells the world that these species matter and that their future is worth investing in. If that encourages more people to appreciate, protect and provide homes for wildlife, we think that is something worth chirping about.
So spread your wings, cast your vote and help decide which species could become the new faces of Britain's currency. Whatever your choice, make sure your favourite does not miss its chance to soar to the top. 🐦🐝🦔
