The Bank of England has announced a shortlist of native wildlife species that could feature on new UK banknotes, including puffins, bottlenose dolphins, and bumblebees. The move is part of an anti-counterfeiting measure, as updated imagery will incorporate new security features. The Bank defended the decision, stating that banknotes are periodically updated to include the latest security and accessibility technologies.
The shortlist, compiled with help from a panel of wildlife experts, includes endangered species such as Atlantic salmon and the marsh fritillary butterfly. The public can vote on the shortlist until 3 July, selecting up to two examples from each of three categories: mammals, birds, and a combined category of amphibians, insects, and fish. The winning animals will replace historical figures like Jane Austen, Winston Churchill, and Alan Turing on the £5, £10, £20, and £50 notes.
The Bank of England emphasised that the chosen animals will be distinct to ensure the notes are easily distinguishable. Victoria Cleland, the Bank's chief cashier, encouraged public participation, saying the shortlist demonstrates the rich variety of UK wildlife. However, the new notes are expected to take years to enter circulation due to the lengthy design and testing process.
The decision has faced criticism from some figures, including Nigel Farage and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who called it “a silly thing to do”. The RSPCA also criticised the Bank, suggesting it should focus on less popular animals like pigeons and rats. No beaver appeared on the final shortlist, despite earlier speculation.
