Spain is home to a vast array of insects, from colorful butterflies and beetles to bees, ants, and dragonflies. Many species are endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. Insects play crucial roles in pollination, pest control, and as a food source for other wildlife. Spain’s diverse habitats—forests, wetlands, mountains, and coastal areas—support a wide variety of insect life. Enthusiasts and researchers can find unique species in protected natural parks and reserves across the country.
The Painted Lady – Vanessa cardui – Vanesa de los cardos butterfly begins its amazing migration from Africa in the early spring, heading north into most areas of Europe. Once there the numbers swell as the second generation develops, but due to the winter cold they do not complete a return journey, therefore their numbers … Read more
There are several colour variationsof Marsh Fritillary – Euphydryas aurinia – Doncella de ondas rojas depending on the locality. The main colours on the upper wings are a mosaic of reddish-orange, buff-yellow with varying amounts of brown. There are black spots inside orange marks to the rear of the upper hind wings. The under wings … Read more
The Large Tortoiseshell – Nymphalis polychloros – Olmera is a large and attractive butterfly that often sunbathes on tree trunks or rocks with its wings open. The adults hibernate through the winter but can be seen flying on warmer days. The main upperwing colour is an orangey red with large black marks towards the front … Read more
Holly Blue – Celastrina argiolus – Nájade butterflies have a distinctive silvery blue under wing with very fine black spots and dashes. They fly very early in the year if it is warm and are likely to be seen around trees and bushes as they feed on honeydew. The upper wings are blue, the male … Read more