Imagine pulling a crisp new note from your wallet and being greeted not by a historical figure, but by the soulful gaze of a bottlenose dolphin or the charming waddle of an Atlantic puffin. In a historic shift for British currency, the Bank of England has officially unveiled its shortlist of 18 native species that could soon grace our £5, £10, £20, and £50 notes. This isn’t just a design update; it’s a national celebration of the incredible biodiversity that thrives across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The transition from portraits of historical icons—like Winston Churchill, Jane Austen, and Alan Turing—to the wild inhabitants of our islands marks a profound change in how the nation views its identity. Are you ready to make your voice heard? Here is everything you need to know about this landmark consultation.
A New Chapter for British Currency: Why Wildlife?
The decision to feature wildlife on the upcoming series of banknotes follows extensive public consultations conducted throughout 2025 and early 2026. The results were clear: nature and wildlife were the most popular themes among the British public, dwarfing traditional categories like historical milestones, art, and innovation.
The Bank of England, guided by a panel of distinguished wildlife experts, filmmakers, and academics, has carefully curated a list that highlights the UK's rich natural heritage. Beyond aesthetics, the move serves a practical purpose: high-quality imagery of animals provides excellent opportunities to integrate advanced anti-counterfeiting security features, ensuring our currency remains both beautiful and secure.
“The shortlisted animals demonstrate the rich variety of wildlife we have to celebrate in the UK,” noted Victoria Cleland, the Bank’s Chief Cashier, as she invited the public to participate in the selection process.
The Shortlist: Meet the Candidates
The 18 candidates have been divided into three distinct categories. Whether you are a fan of our coastal giants or our bustling garden inhabitants, there is a representative for you.
1. Mammals
- Bottlenose Dolphin: A symbol of our vibrant marine ecosystems.
- Brown Hare: The agile, iconic inhabitant of our rural landscapes.
- European Hedgehog: A beloved, yet increasingly vulnerable, garden visitor.
- Grey Seal: Masters of the UK's rugged coastlines.
- Pine Marten: The elusive and fascinating climber of the woodlands.
- Red Fox: The adaptable, charismatic survivor of both city and countryside.
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2. Birds
- Atlantic Puffin: Known as the 'clowns of the sea,' these birds are firm favorites for their colorful beaks and comical nature.
- Barn Owl: A ghostly, silent hunter of the twilight.
- Common Kingfisher: A flash of brilliant blue along our riverbanks.
- Eurasian Curlew: A hauntingly beautiful voice of the moorlands and wetlands.
- Great Spotted Woodpecker: A master of the trees and a staple of British forests.
- White-tailed Eagle: A magnificent bird of prey that showcases successful conservation stories.
3. Amphibians, Insects, and Fish
- Atlantic Salmon: A vital indicator of healthy, clean river systems.
- Basking Shark: A gentle giant of the deep, representing the scale of UK marine life.
- Buff-tailed Bumblebee: Essential pollinators that keep our ecosystems blooming.
- Common Frog: A vital link in our pond and garden food chains.
- Emperor Dragonfly: A majestic, shimmering insect of the wetlands.
- Marsh Fritillary Butterfly: A rare and beautiful species highlighting the importance of habitat protection.
Controversy and Context
Change, however, rarely comes without debate. The shift away from human historical figures has faced criticism from some political quarters. Figures such as Nigel Farage and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch have expressed concern about removing historical icons from the public eye. Critics argue that banknotes serve as an important medium for remembering our cultural and political heritage.
Conversely, supporters view this as an opportunity for national renewal. By showcasing the natural world, the UK highlights its commitment to conservation and environmental awareness at a time when biodiversity loss is a major global concern. Whether you side with the traditionalists or the nature enthusiasts, the debate underscores how deeply we care about the symbols that define our nation.
What Happens Next?
Once the voting closes on July 3, the Bank will begin the complex, multi-year process of designing, testing, and printing the new series. Do not expect to find these animal-themed notes in your local ATM tomorrow—the transition is a long-term project aimed at maintaining the highest standards of quality, accessibility, and security.
Importantly, the new series will continue to feature a portrait of the reigning monarch, maintaining the bridge between British tradition and our evolving natural identity.
Why Does This Matter for Wildlife Conservation?
Beyond the ink and paper, this initiative brings significant attention to the state of UK wildlife. Many of the shortlisted species, such as the marsh fritillary butterfly and the European hedgehog, face significant threats from habitat loss and climate change. Placing them on the most widely used objects in the country serves as a daily reminder of the natural world we are responsible for protecting.
As we look forward to the final reveal, we encourage everyone to learn more about these fascinating creatures. Visit your local Wildlife Trust, spend time in nature, and appreciate the biodiversity that makes the UK unique. Your vote on the banknote design is more than a choice—it’s a commitment to recognizing the value of the wild creatures that share our home.
Ready to cast your vote? Head over to the official Bank of England website before the July 3 deadline and help pick the new faces of the British Pound!
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