30 Butterfly Species in Iceland

Welcome to the beautiful world of Icelandic butterflies! Despite its cold climate, Iceland is home to an impressive 30 butterfly species.

Let’s explore these winged wonders and learn more about their unique characteristics and habitats.

Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae)

The Small Tortoiseshell is a common and widely distributed butterfly species in Iceland.

It is relatively easy to spot due to its distinct appearance and iconic wing pattern.

Here’s a quick overview of its characteristics:

• Habitat: Small Tortoiseshells can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, meadows, woodland edges, and even urban areas.
• Appearance: The upper side of the wings is predominantly orange with black and yellow markings, as well as blue spots near the wing edges. The underside of the wings is a combination of gray, brown, and black with blue spots near the edge.
• Size: With a wingspan ranging from 45 to 62 mm, the Small Tortoiseshell is considered a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from various flowers, such as thistles, dandelions, and buddleia. The caterpillars feed on nettles (Urtica spp.).
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in the spring, and females lay clusters of eggs on the underside of leaves, usually on nettles.
• Lifespan: The Small Tortoiseshell has a lifespan of about 11 to 12 months, with adults hibernating during winter months.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for the Small Tortoiseshell is the common nettle (Urtica dioica), but it can also feed on other Urtica species.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

The Painted Lady is a fascinating butterfly species you can find in Iceland. Chances are, you might even spot one in your own garden!

Let’s dive deeper into this beautiful creature and get to know more about its characteristics:

• Habitat: Painted Ladies can be found in various environments, from gardens to meadows, and even in urban settings.
• Appearance: Known for its distinctive orange and black wings with white spots, the Painted Lady is quite a sight to behold.
• Size: This versatile species has a wingspan ranging from 5 to 9 centimeters, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Painted Ladies primarily feed on the nectar of flowers. However, their caterpillars feast on a wide variety of host plants.
• Reproduction: During spring, Painted Ladies lay their eggs on host plants, which act as a food source for the emerging caterpillars.
• Lifespan: The adult Painted Lady lives for about two to four weeks after reaching maturity.
• Host Plants: Some common host plants include thistles, hollyhocks, and nettles, providing essential nourishment for the caterpillars.

Next time you spot a Painted Lady fluttering by, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and intriguing life cycle.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

The Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) is a striking butterfly that you can find during your Icelandic adventures.

Its incredible beauty and unique features make it a remarkable addition to the diverse butterfly species in Iceland.

• Habitat: The Red Admiral thrives in various habitats, such as gardens, meadows, woodlands, and even coastal areas. You can find them basking in the sunshine or nectaring on flowers.
• Appearance: This butterfly boasts a stunning combination of black and red-orange bands on its wings. The red bands are outlined by a white herringbone pattern near the edges.
• Size: With a wingspan of approximately 50-60 mm, the Red Admiral is a medium-sized butterfly that is easy to spot.
• Diet: Adult Red Admirals feed on nectar from flowers, especially those of the thistle, aster, and buddleia species. In addition, the caterpillars consume common nettle leaves and the leaves of various plants from the Urticaceae family.
• Reproduction: Mating takes place throughout the season, and the females lay their eggs singly on the tips of host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: Red Admiral butterflies have a lifespan of 6-9 months, provided they can survive the harsh winter conditions.
• Host Plants: The favored host plants for Red Admiral caterpillars are common nettle (Urtica dioica) and other related species from the Urticaceae family.

As you continue exploring the Icelandic butterfly species, be sure to keep an eye out for the vibrant and stunning Red Admiral.

Peacock Butterfly (Aglais io)

The Peacock Butterfly is one of the most recognizable and stunning butterflies in Iceland.

Its vibrant colors and unique appearance make it easy to spot, and its interesting life cycle adds an intriguing element to its story.

• Habitat: Peacock butterflies can be found in various habitats, such as meadows, gardens, parks, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: This species is known for its stunning eye-like patterns on the wings, which mimic a peacock’s feathers. The base color is reddish-brown, with blue, yellow, and black markings.
• Size: Peacock butterflies have a wingspan of about 50-55mm, making them medium-sized when compared to other butterfly species.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers, while the larvae feed on the leaves of host plants like nettles.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on the leaves of the host plant. The larvae then spin a tent-like web to protect themselves while feeding.
• Lifespan: Adult butterflies typically live for about two weeks, though they may live up to a month in optimal conditions.
• Host Plants: The most common host plants for the Peacock butterfly are nettles, particularly the small nettle (Urtica urens) and the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica).

Comma (Polygonia c-album)

The Comma butterfly is a fascinating species that you can find in Iceland.

Known for its remarkable appearance and behavior, this butterfly brings color and life to the Icelandic fauna.

Let’s dive deeper into the characteristics of this beautiful insect:

• Habitat: The Comma prefers woodland or garden areas with plenty of nettles and can thrive in a variety of climates, from sunny glades to shady spots.
• Appearance: The wings are uniquely jagged and scalloped, resembling a dead leaf when closed. Its underside is brown with a noticeable white comma mark, while the upperside boasts striking orange and brown colors, creating a camouflage effect.
• Size: Adults have a wingspan of 4.5-6 cm, making them a relatively medium-sized butterfly species.
• Diet: These adult butterflies are fond of feeding on flower nectar, ripe fruits, and tree sap.
• Reproduction: Males are territorial and will protect their patch from rivals. After mating, females lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: Commas typically have two generations per year, with a rather short adult life of only 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: The larvae predominantly feed on common nettle (Urtica dioica), elm (Ulmus spp.), and willow (Salix spp.) leaves.

Camberwell Beauty (Nymphalis antiopa)

The Camberwell Beauty, also known as the Mourning Cloak, is a unique butterfly species found in Iceland.

Its striking appearance and fascinating life cycle make it a must-see for butterfly enthusiasts visiting the country.

Here’s a quick overview of the Camberwell Beauty:

• Habitat: Prefers deciduous woodland, gardens, and parks with a mix of sun and shade.
• Appearance: A dark maroon-brown color with a creamy-yellow band along the edge of the wings and an iridescent blue sheen if seen in the right light.
• Size: Moderate-sized butterfly with a wingspan of around 6-10 cm.
• Diet: Primarily nectars from flowers, but will also feed on tree sap, fruit juice, and damp-accessible minerals.
• Reproduction: Females lay clusters of yellow-green eggs on the favored host plants, which hatch after about 10-14 days.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several months and can survive the winter by hibernating in tree hollows or other sheltered locations.
• Host Plants: Caterpillars feed on a range of deciduous trees, including willow, elm, and poplar.

Next time you’re in Iceland, see if you can spot this beautiful butterfly flitting through the countryside.

Grayling (Hipparchia semele)

The Grayling is one of the fascinating butterfly species found in Iceland, often overlooked due to its cryptic appearance.

This species has some unique characteristics that set it apart from other butterflies.

Let’s explore the Grayling in detail:

• Habitat: Graylings are found in various habitats, such as coastal dunes, moorlands, grasslands, and roadsides. They have a preference for dry and sunny environments.
• Appearance: The Grayling has a brown color with well-defined eye-spots on the wings. Its cryptic coloration helps to blend in with the surroundings.
• Size: The wingspan of the Grayling butterfly ranges between 45-60 mm, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Grayling butterflies primarily feed on nectar from flowers, such as thistles, heathers, and hebes.
• Reproduction: Males establish territories and perch on high lookout points, waiting for a potential mate. Females lay their eggs on the host plants in late summer.
• Lifespan: The Grayling has a brief adult lifespan of about 2-3 weeks, with the whole lifecycle taking approximately one year.
• Host Plants: The larvae of the Grayling feed on various grass species, such as Sheep’s Fescue (Festuca ovina) and Marram Grass (Ammophila arenaria).

Northern Brown Argus (Aricia artaxerxes)

The Northern Brown Argus is a captivating butterfly species often found in Iceland.

With its beautiful appearance and fascinating life cycle, this fascinating creature is worth learning more about.

Let’s delve into the various aspects of the Northern Brown Argus:

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer grassy slopes, open meadows, and woodland clearings. They’re found commonly in Northern Europe, including Iceland.
• Appearance: Northern Brown Argus has a brown upper side with a faint orange band and a row of black spots on the forewings. Their underside is brown with white and orange markings.
• Size: Their wingspan is approximately 30-35mm, making them relatively small compared to other species.
• Diet: Adults feed primarily on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars munch on their host plants.
• Reproduction: Female butterflies lay their eggs on host plants, which are usually rock rose or common rock-rose.
• Lifespan: The adult Northern Brown Argus has a short life span of around 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Their larvae typically feed on Helianthemum species, such as rock-rose and common rock-rose.

By understanding and appreciating the Northern Brown Argus, you’ll gain a new perspective on the incredible biodiversity of Iceland.

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus)

The Small Heath is one of the intriguing butterfly species you can find in Iceland.

Let’s dive deeper to learn more about this fascinating butterfly.

• Habitat: Small Heath butterflies are found in various grassy habitats, such as meadows, heathlands, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: They have brown, grayish, and orange wings. Their undersides are light gray with small black and white markings, offering perfect camouflage against the grassy terrain.
• Size: Small Heath butterflies have a wingspan of around 25-30mm, making them one of the smaller species in Iceland.
• Diet: Adults feed on various nectar sources from flowering plants, including clovers, thistles, and other common wildflowers.
• Reproduction: Females lay single eggs on the tips of grass blades. The eggs overwinter before hatching into caterpillars in the following spring.
• Lifespan: Adult Small Heath butterflies live around 2-4 weeks, depending on weather conditions and availability of food sources.
• Host Plants: The larvae primarily feed on various species of grasses, such as fescues, bent grasses, and meadow grasses.

The Small Heath butterfly is a delightful species in Iceland’s rich biodiversity. Its well-adapted camouflage and unique life cycle make it a fascinating creature to observe and study.

Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina)

The Meadow Brown is an appealing butterfly species that gracefully adds a touch of beauty to the Icelandic landscape.

They can easily be spotted flying low over grassy and flowery environments during their short lifespan.

Let’s dive deeper into the unique features and habits of the Meadow Brown butterfly.

• Habitat: Meadow Browns are generally found in open grasslands, meadows, and urban parks.
• Appearance: These butterflies display earthy brown tones, with orange patches and a distinctive black eye-spot on their upper wings.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 4 to 5 cm, making them a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: As nectar feeders, Meadow Browns primarily feed on the nectar of wildflowers like daisies and thistles.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on the blades of various grass species, and there’s only one generation per year.
• Lifespan: Meadow Browns have relatively short lives, usually ranging from 2 to 6 weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars of Meadow Brown butterflies mostly feed on common grasses, such as perennial ryegrass and fescues.

Large White (Pieris brassicae)

The Large White, also known as the Cabbage White, is a common butterfly species found in Iceland. It’s particularly prevalent in gardens and agricultural areas.

Let’s explore more about this fascinating creature:

• Habitat: Large Whites can be found in various habitats, including gardens, meadows, farmland, and sometimes wooded areas.
• Appearance: This butterfly has white wings with black tips on the forewings and a black spot on the hindwings. Female Large Whites have two black spots on the forewings, while males have only one.
• Size: They have a wingspan of about 5-6.5 cm (2-2.6 inches), making them one of the larger white butterfly species.
• Diet: Adult Large Whites feed on flower nectar, while the caterpillars are known to consume leaves of cabbage and other brassica plants.
• Reproduction: Female Large Whites lay their yellowish eggs on the underside of leaves. The caterpillars emerge, feeding voraciously on host plants.
• Lifespan: The adult butterflies live for about 3-4 weeks, while the caterpillars take about a month to become fully grown before pupating.
• Host Plants: As the name suggests, they often use cabbage and other brassica plants (such as kale, broccoli, and cauliflower) as their primary host plants, which is why they are considered a pest in some agricultural settings.

Small White (Pieris rapae)

The Small White, also known as the Small Cabbage White butterfly, is one of the most common and widespread butterfly species in Iceland.

This butterfly can be found in a variety of habitats, making it a fascinating creature to observe.

Let’s dive into some notable features of this fascinating species:

• Habitat: The Small White can be found in a wide range of habitats, including gardens, meadows, urban parks, and agricultural lands.
• Appearance: This species displays white wings with black spots on the upper side, and a pale greenish-yellow underwing with faint black spots.
• Size: The wingspan of the Small White ranges from 3.2 to 5.1 cm.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of plants from the Brassicaceae family.
• Reproduction: The Small White is known for its prolific breeding, with females laying up to 200 eggs at a time, often in clusters.
• Lifespan: The adult butterfly typically lives between 2 to 4 weeks.
• Host Plants: Some notable host plants for the Small White include cabbage, kale, mustard, and radish, which explain their alternative name ‘Small Cabbage White’.

As you explore Iceland’s beautiful landscapes, you’re bound to come across the charming Small White butterfly, adding a touch of elegance to the natural beauty all around you.

Green-veined White (Pieris napi)

The Green-veined White (Pieris napi) is a beautiful butterfly species that you can encounter in Iceland.

This butterfly boasts white upper wings with prominent greenish veins on its lower wings, adding to its allure.

Here’s some noteworthy information about the Green-veined White:

• Habitat: The Green-veined White can be found in various habitats, including meadows, riverbanks, woodlands, fields, and gardens.
• Appearance: They are predominantly white with distinct, greenish, irregular vein markings on their lower wings.
• Size: This butterfly ranges in size between 40 and 50 millimeters in wingspan.
• Diet: Adult Green-veined Whites feed on the nectar of various flowers, such as clover, daisies, and thistles.
• Reproduction: Mating takes place in early spring, with females laying eggs on the host plants for the larvae.
• Lifespan: The typical adult butterfly lasts 2 to 3 weeks in summer, with the final generation of the year surviving until early October.
• Host Plants: Its primary host plants are cruciferous species, like wild cabbage, hedge mustard, and garlic mustard, which are consumed by the larvae.

All in all, the Green-veined White is a fascinating butterfly species inhabiting Iceland’s diverse landscapes, being a welcomed sight for anyone who appreciates colorful and enchanting insects.

Orange Tip (Anthocharis cardamines)

The Orange Tip butterfly is a fascinating species that can be found in Iceland.

This beautiful and unique creature has some interesting characteristics that make it stand out from other butterfly species.

Let’s take a closer look at this wonder of nature:

• Habitat: Orange Tips thrive in various habitats such as meadows, gardens, woodland edges, hedgerows, and damp areas.
• Appearance: Males display bright orange tips on their forewings, while females have white or greyish wings with black patterns and no orange coloration.
• Size: Adult Orange Tips have a wingspan of about 35-55 mm.
• Diet: The primary food for adult Orange Tips is flower nectar; however, caterpillars feed on the leaves of their host plants.
• Reproduction: Orange Tips breed once a year, laying their eggs on host plants. The caterpillars emerge in about a week and begin to feed on the plants’ leaves.
• Lifespan: The Orange Tip has a relatively short life cycle, with adults living up to 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: The main host plants for the caterpillars are Cuckooflower (Cardamine pratensis) and Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata).

Mountain Ringlet (Erebia epiphron)

The Mountain Ringlet is a unique butterfly species native to Iceland.

It is well-adapted to living in various mountain habitats, making it one of the most fascinating butterflies you can find in the country.

• Habitat: Mostly found in mountainous areas or high altitudes, such as grassy slopes, rocky outcrops, and alpine meadows.
• Appearance: Mountain Ringlets showcase a beautiful combination of dark brown wings with orange-red bands. Additionally, they have black and white spots or ‘eyespots’ on their wings.
• Size: Having a wingspan of 25-31 mm, this small butterfly might be difficult to spot within its surroundings.
• Diet: Adult Mountain Ringlets feed on nectar from various alpine flowers such as the Mountain Avens, while their larvae feed on grass.
• Reproduction: This species has a unique biennial life cycle, with eggs being laid on the chosen host plants. The caterpillars overwinter twice, hidden amongst grasses and other vegetation.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for around 2 to 3 weeks, during which they have plenty of time for mating and laying eggs.
• Host Plants: Alpine meadow grass is the primary host plant for their larvae, since it provides the necessary nutrients essential for their growth and development.

Clouded Yellow (Colias croceus)

The Clouded Yellow butterfly, scientifically known as Colias croceus, is one of the most fascinating butterfly species found in Iceland.

Let’s dive into more details about this beautiful creature:

• Habitat: These butterflies are known to inhabit various terrains such as meadows, open grasslands, coastal areas, and even urban gardens.
• Appearance: The wings of the Clouded Yellow exhibit a vibrant yellow to orange color with black borders, creating an exquisite contrast. The underside of the wings, on the other hand, features a greenish-gray hue with white patches.
• Size: The Clouded Yellow butterfly has a wingspan ranging from 5 cm to 6.4 cm, making it a medium-sized butterfly species.
• Diet: Adult Clouded Yellows primarily feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants including clovers, knapweeds, and thistles.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in late summer, after which the females lay their eggs on the host plants. The eggs then hatch into caterpillars, which subsequently transform into chrysalises before finally emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The typical lifespan of a Clouded Yellow butterfly is 3 to 4 weeks.
• Host Plants: The main host plants for the caterpillars are legume plants, such as clover, alfalfa, and other species in the Fabaceae family. They use these plants for both shelter and a food source, munching happily on them as they grow and develop into butterflies.

Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas)

The Small Copper is an enchanting butterfly species found in Iceland. It brings a touch of vibrant color to the landscapes of this beautiful country.

Let’s explore the features and characteristics of this delightful butterfly:

• Habitat: Small Coppers can be found in a wide range of locations, including meadows, heathlands, roadside verges, field margins, and even urban gardens.
• Appearance: Small Coppers boast striking, bright orange and brown upper wings, with a coppery sheen. The undersides have a subtle gray-brown pattern with a few orange spots.
• Size: With a wingspan of only 22-27 mm, Small Coppers are indeed quite small butterflies.
• Diet: As adult butterflies, Small Coppers usually feed on nectar from flowers such as dandelions, thistles, and heather.
• Reproduction: Mating takes place between May and September, after which female butterflies lay single eggs on the undersides of leaves.
• Lifespan: The adult Small Copper has a relatively short life, living for only two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars of this species prefer feeding on Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) and Sheep’s Sorrel (Rumex acetosella).

The Small Copper is a captivating butterfly species that adds a spark of life and color to Iceland’s diverse ecosystems.

Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus)

Common Blue is one of the most picturesque butterfly species found in Iceland.

This enchanting creature holds several fascinating features that make it a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts.

A few significant aspects of the Common Blue are as follows:

• Habitat: Common Blue butterflies prefer grasslands, meadows, heathlands, and coastal dunes. They can be spotted basking in sunlight, enjoying their habitat.
• Appearance: Males have a bright blue upper wing surface while females exhibit a more subtle brown color with a hint of blue. Both genders showcase orange crescents and black spots on the wings’ outer edges.
• Size: These butterflies are relatively small, with a wingspan ranging from 28 to 36 millimeters.
• Diet: The adults mainly feed on nectar from flowers like thistles, daisies, and bird’s-foot trefoils.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs from spring to autumn, with females laying eggs on the host plant’s leaves.
• Lifespan: The life cycle of a Common Blue takes about a month. However, adults live for a shorter duration, around two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: Their larvae primarily feed on the leaves of leguminous plants like clovers and trefoils.

Dark Green Fritillary (Speyeria aglaja)

The Dark Green Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species found in Iceland, known for its brilliant green markings and remarkable adaptability.

Here’s what you need to know about this captivating insect:

• Habitat: These butterflies thrive in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, woodlands, and coastal regions. They can adapt to various environments, making them quite versatile in terms of habitat preferences.
• Appearance: The Dark Green Fritillary displays a striking combination of dark green and silver scales on the underside of its wings, perfectly camouflaged in grass landscapes while resting.
• Size: This medium-to-large-sized butterfly has a wingspan that ranges between 50-63 millimeters, making it a fairly noticeable presence in the wild.
• Diet: Adult Dark Green Fritillaries mainly feed on nectar from various flowers, such as thistles and knapweeds. Their larvae feed on the leaves of violets, forming a significant part of their diet.
• Reproduction: These butterflies lay their eggs on violet plants during late summer, which serves as both egg-laying sites and food for caterpillars.
• Lifespan: Adult Dark Green Fritillaries have a short lifespan, living for approximately two to three weeks, while the entire life cycle from egg to adulthood lasts about one year.
• Host Plants: Violet plants, such as Viola riviniana and Viola canina, play a crucial role in their life cycle by providing both egg-laying sites and nourishment for caterpillars.

Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia)

The Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia) is a stunning butterfly species that can be found in Iceland’s diverse natural landscapes.

As you take a closer look at this fascinating creature, you’ll discover some of its unique characteristics and habits.

Whether you’re a butterfly enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, this butterfly is sure to captivate.

• Habitat: The Silver-washed Fritillary prefers deciduous woodlands, where it can be seen flying gracefully near forest clearings and edges.
• Appearance: This butterfly boasts distinct markings with a vibrant orange background and black spots on its wings. Its underwings exhibit a silvery streak pattern that gives it its name.
• Size: This species has a wingspan of about 54-70 mm, making it relatively large in comparison to other Icelandic butterflies.
• Diet: The adults primarily feed on nectar from violet flowers, contributing to pollination.
• Reproduction: These butterflies mate in mid-summer, and females lay eggs on the bark of trees, close to the violet bushes.
• Lifespan: Adult Silver-washed Fritillary butterflies have a lifespan of approximately one month.
• Host Plants: The larvae depend on violets (Viola spp.) as their primary host plant for sustenance during the developmental stage.

Arctic Fritillary (Boloria chariclea)

The Arctic Fritillary is an enchanting butterfly species that thrives in Iceland’s chilly environment.

Get to know this fascinating species and appreciate the natural beauty that can be found in this Northern region.

• Habitat: Arctic Fritillaries inhabit cold environments like Iceland, northern parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.
• Appearance: They showcase orange-brown wings with dark markings on the upper side, while the underside has complex patterns of white, yellow, and dark brown.
• Size: These butterflies have a wingspan of 35-45 mm.
• Diet: As adults, they mainly feed on nectar from flowers, especially those of the willowherb and pink families.
• Reproduction: Arctic Fritillaries mate during June and July, with females laying their eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: Though the adult stage lasts only a few weeks, the entire life cycle of this butterfly, from egg to adult, takes about one year to complete.
• Host Plants: Larvae feed predominantly on violets, particularly the alpine violet, which contributes to their growth as they prepare for metamorphosis into adult butterflies.

Polar Fritillary (Boloria polaris)

The Polar Fritillary is a unique butterfly species found in Iceland. With its beautiful markings and fascinating life cycle, it’s an intriguing creature to observe.

Let’s explore some aspects of the Polar Fritillary:

• Habitat: The Polar Fritillary thrives in the arctic and mountainous regions. In Iceland, they can be found in colder, high-altitude habitats, and tend to prefer rocky areas or sparse vegetation.
• Appearance: The upper surface of their wings display an intricate pattern of orange and brown, while their undersides are quite pale with delicate silver markings.
• Size: They are small- to medium-sized butterflies, with a wingspan ranging from 38 to 43 mm.
• Diet: As adults, these butterflies primarily feed on flower nectar. For the caterpillars, their diet consists of various plant species like violets.
• Reproduction: After mating, the females lay eggs singly on the leaves of their host plants. The caterpillars emerge and feed on the plant before pupating and transforming into adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The adult butterflies typically live for about 2-3 weeks, during which they mate and lay eggs to ensure the survival of the next generation.
• Host Plants: Some common host plants for the Polar Fritillary are violets, particularly the Arctic Yellow Violet (Viola biflora) and Dwarf Cornel (Cornus suecica).

Lesser Marbled Fritillary (Brenthis ino)

The Lesser Marbled Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Iceland.

Here are some interesting facts about this unique member of the Fritillary family:

• Habitat: It prefers moist meadows, damp woodland clearings, and flowery marshes. In Iceland, you can spot them in these specific environments.
• Appearance: This butterfly exhibits a striking pattern, with orange and black markings on the upper side of their wings, while the underside features a beautiful marbled effect.
• Size: Lesser Marbled Fritillaries have a wingspan of about 35-45mm, making them a relatively small sized butterfly.
• Diet: The adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers like thistles, vetches, and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: The female lays her eggs on the leaves of the host plants, with just one egg per leaf. The emerging caterpillars will then feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: As adults, their lifespan ranges from 2-4 weeks. However, the entire life cycle (egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult) can span around 1 year.
• Host Plants: Their main host plants are species of violets, specifically Viola palustris and Viola canina, which are crucial for the development of their caterpillars.

As you explore Iceland, keep an eye out for this lesser-known but nevertheless captivating species of butterfly!

Purple-edged Copper (Lycaena hippothoe)

The Purple-edged Copper is a stunning butterfly species native to Iceland.

It is a member of the Lycaenidae family and brings a burst of vibrant color to the Icelandic landscape.

Here are some fascinating details about this captivating butterfly:

• Habitat: Purple-edged Coppers are found in damp, grassy meadows, marshy areas, and wetlands. They prefer sunlit habitats with ample vegetation and open spaces for basking.
• Appearance: The striking upper side of the wings is metallic purple-blue with orange-red spots on the hind wings. The underside presents a unique marbled pattern with white, gray, and orange colors.
• Size: These butterflies measure approximately 32 to 40 mm in wingspan, making them fairly small yet noticeable.
• Diet: As adults, their primary food source consists of nectar from various flowering plants, while the caterpillars feed on host plants.
• Reproduction: During mating season, the male Purple-edged Copper displays a unique aerial dance to attract the female. After mating, the female lays her eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan ranges from 3 to 4 weeks for adults, but the entire life cycle spans over 1 year with eggs, larvae, and pupae stages.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars of Purple-edged Copper butterflies rely on marsh cinquefoil (Potentilla palustris) and other related species for their nutrition and development.

Scarce Copper (Lycaena virgaureae)

The Scarce Copper is a fascinating butterfly species that inhabits various parts of Iceland.

This small yet captivating creature is known for its bright colors and delicate flight patterns.

Let’s dive into some of the key aspects of this beautiful butterfly:

• Habitat: The Scarce Copper can be found in meadows, grasslands, and open woodland areas, making it a common sight in the Icelandic countryside.
• Appearance: This species has striking orange and bright copper colored wings with black spots and borders, making it easily identifiable.
• Size: The Scarce Copper typically has a wingspan of 30-40 mm, contributing to its delicate and nimble flight.
• Diet: Adult Scarce Coppers primarily feed on nectar from various flowers, while their caterpillars feed on the leaves of host plants.
• Reproduction: Female Scarce Coppers lay their eggs on host plants, which the emerging caterpillars feed on before eventually transforming into adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Adult Scarce Coppers have a rather short lifespan, generally only living for a few weeks during the summer season.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Scarce Copper caterpillars include various species from the Rumex and Polygonum families, such as sorrel and dock.

Understanding and appreciating the Scarce Copper and its role in Iceland’s ecosystem is essential for sustaining the natural beauty of this unique country.

Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus)

The Holly Blue is a fascinating butterfly species you can find in Iceland, known for its distinct appearance and intriguing life cycle.

A few tidbits about this species:

• Habitat: Holly Blue butterflies can be found in woodland clearings, hedgerows, and gardens, where their host plants grow.
• Appearance: These butterflies boast a striking blue color on the upper side of their wings, while the underside is light gray with black spots.
• Size: The Holly Blue has a wingspan of approximately 26-34mm, making it a relatively small butterfly.
• Diet: Adult Holly Blues feed on flower nectar, favoring blooms such as heather, ivy, holly, and bramble.
• Reproduction: The female Holly Blue lays her eggs on flower buds or young leaves of the host plants.
• Lifespan: Adults have a short life, typically 2-3 weeks, during which they mate, lay eggs, and eventually die.
• Host Plants: Holly Blue caterpillars feed on the young leaves of holly, ivy, and other woody plants in the Aquifoliaceae family.

With this information, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the beauty and intriguing behavior of the Holly Blue butterfly when you come across one in Iceland.

Arctic Blue (Plebejus glandon)

Arctic Blue, scientifically known as Plebejus glandon, is a striking butterfly species native to Iceland.

With their vibrant blue color and delicate nature, they are truly a sight to behold.

• Habitat: These butterflies thrive in high-altitude environments, favoring alpine meadows and tundra habitats.
• Appearance: Males of this species have beautiful iridescent blue wings, while females sport brown wings with striking orange spots on the edges.
• Size: Arctic Blue butterflies have a wingspan of around 24-30mm, making them relatively small in comparison to other butterfly species.
• Diet: Their primary food sources are flower nectar, especially from dwarf willow, alpine cinquefoil, and other alpine flowers.
• Reproduction: Mature Arctic Blue butterflies lay eggs on the host plants, whereupon hatching, the caterpillars proceed to feed before pupating and transforming into adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The life cycle of Arctic Blue butterflies from egg to adult lasts for a mere 6-7 weeks, with adult butterflies living approximately 3-4 weeks.
• Host Plants: Arctic Blue caterpillars have a primary preference for leguminous host plants like alfalfa, clover, and lupine.

The presence of these captivating butterflies adds to the striking beauty and diversity of Iceland’s unique fauna.

Idas Blue (Plebejus idas)

The Idas Blue, scientifically known as Plebejus idas, is a fascinating butterfly species found in Iceland.

These charming little creatures captivate the attention of nature enthusiasts, who seek to learn more about them.

Below are some interesting aspects of the Idas Blue butterfly:

• Habitat: The Idas Blue inhabits grasslands, meadows, and coastal regions, thriving in areas with plenty of flowering plants.
• Appearance: This species sports an attractive shiny blue color on the upper surface of their wings, with a row of small black spots and a white fringe present along the edges.
• Size: The Idas Blue is relatively small, with a wingspan ranging from 28 to 34 millimeters.
• Diet: Adult Idas Blue butterflies mainly feed on the nectar of various flowering plants, while the larvae feed on the host plants’ leaves.
• Reproduction: Male Idas Blue butterflies engage in a unique behavior called “patrolling,” where they actively search for females. After mating, the female lays eggs on the host plants.
• Lifespan: The average adult Idas Blue butterfly has a brief lifespan of 1-2 months, sometimes even shorter depending on environmental factors.
• Host Plants: The larvae primarily feed on plants from the legume family, such as Astragalus, Lotus, and Vicia species.

These intriguing facts highlight the remarkable picture of the Idas Blue butterfly and their role in Iceland’s rich and diverse ecosystem.

Geranium Argus (Eumedonia eumedon)

The Geranium Argus is a fascinating butterfly species you can encounter in Iceland.

Also known as the Geranium Bronze, it is relatively rare in Iceland, making it a delight to spot.

Let’s discover more about this delightful butterfly:

• Habitat: Prefers damp meadows, woodland clearings, and areas with tall grass.
• Appearance: Displays a striking pattern of orange and brown with a hint of blue, creating an intricate and alluring design.
• Size: Boasts a wingspan of approximately 25 to 30 mm, making it a fairly small butterfly.
• Diet: Primarily feeds on nectar from flowers, particularly Geranium plants.
• Reproduction: Adults mate in the summer months, with females laying eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: Enjoy a relatively short life, living for approximately 3 to 5 weeks once they emerge as adults.
• Host Plants: Geranium species, where the larvae feed and grow, eventually metamorphosing into adults.

Remember to keep an eye out for this lovely little butterfly while exploring the Icelandic countryside, as it is sure to captivate you with its delightful presence.

Chequered Skipper (Carterocephalus palaemon)

The Chequered Skipper, or Carterocephalus palaemon, is a stunning butterfly species that can be found in Iceland.

Known for its incredible beauty and elusive nature, this butterfly is truly unique and worth taking the time to study.

Here’s a breakdown of some key facts about the Chequered Skipper:

• Habitat: Typically found in wet meadows, marshlands, and damp grasslands.
• Appearance: Showcases stunning golden brown wings with a beautiful, intricate checkerboard pattern of white and orange-brown markings.
• Size: Sports a wingspan of approximately 25-30 mm.
• Diet: Mainly feeds on the nectar of various flowers, such as Dandelion, Eyebright, and Yellow Rattle.
• Reproduction: Mates during May and June, during which time the female lays eggs on the larval host plants.
• Lifespan: Adults usually live for up to two weeks.
• Host Plants: Primarily lays eggs on the Purple Moor-grass and the False Brome grass species.

Keep an eye out for this captivating butterfly when exploring the Icelandic countryside, as its dazzling pattern is a sight you won’t want to miss.

Conclusion

In summary, Iceland is home to a diverse range of 30 unique butterfly species, each with their own beauty and charm.

As you explore the stunning landscapes of Iceland, keep an eye out for these delicate winged creatures fluttering their way across the island.

What are your favorite butterfly species in Iceland? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!