Spain is home to a rich diversity of butterflies, with over 200 species found across its landscapes. From colorful fritillaries in mountain meadows to delicate blues in coastal dunes, butterflies thrive in forests, grasslands, and protected natural areas. Many species are active in spring and summer, making them a delight for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Butterflies play a crucial role as pollinators, supporting the health of Spanish ecosystems. Spain’s varied climates and habitats create ideal conditions for observing both common and rare species throughout the country.
The Spanish Festoon – Zerynthia rumina – Arlequín is a medium sized butterfly that often flies at low levels among grasses. The main colour is yellow with an attractive pattern of black with large red spots over the upper wings. The under wings have an intricate design, including a wavy line of black and red … Read more
Family: Nymphalidae Scientific name: Charaxes jasius English common name: Two-tailed Pasha Spanish common name: Bajá de dos colas In flight, the Two-tailed Pasha – Charaxes jasius – Bajá de dos colas is a fast moving, large, darkly coloured butterfly. At rest the intricate under-wing patterns and 4 tails can be observed. It is generally localised … Read more
Family: Lycaenidae Scientific name: Satyrium spini English common name: Blue-spot Hairstreak Spanish common name: Mancha azul The Blue-spot Hairstreak – Satyrium spini – Mancha azul is a fairly small butterfly that rarely shows its upperwing. The under wings are grey / brown in colour with a white line running through both fore and hind wings. … Read more
Family: Pieridae Scientific name: Aporia crataegi English common name: Black-veined White Spanish common name: Blanca del Majuelo Portuguese common name: Borboleta do pilriteiro The Black-veined White – Aporia crataegi – Blanca del Majuelo is a fairly large butterfly, easily recognised by the black veining on a white background, with no spots. The female has a … Read more