The Bank of England revealed that its next series of banknotes will showcase four native UK species – the Atlantic puffin, barn owl, buff‑tailed bumblebee and European hedgehog – after consulting the public.

The bank said the animals were chosen from an 18‑option shortlist compiled with a panel of UK wildlife experts, representing mammals, birds and insects.

Nearly half a million respondents took part in the consultation, with the barn owl, bumblebee and hedgehog topping their respective categories and the puffin leading the marine animal group.

The Bank noted that featuring a marine animal adds visual variety across denominations and highlights the British coastline.

While the specific animal‑to‑denomination match will be announced later, the central imagery will be complemented by additional natural elements and will retain the portrait of the monarch.

The Bank did not set a launch date, explaining that designing, testing and printing new notes takes several years, with the first denomination expected to appear in the coming years.

Chief Cashier Victoria Cleland said the chosen species are distinct and will enhance both the aesthetic appeal and security of the notes, while incoming Chief Cashier Rhys Phillips outlined the next steps of design, testing and production.

The redesign follows a July‑last‑year announcement to base the new series on nature, moving away from the current series that features historical figures such as Winston Churchill and Jane Austen.