30 Butterfly Species in Sweden

Welcome to the enchanting world of butterflies in Sweden!

Home to 30 diverse and beautiful species, Sweden’s countryside offers remarkable opportunities to witness these astonishing creatures in their natural habitat.

Let’s embark on a journey to explore these fascinating butterfly species and learn more about their unique characteristics.

Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

The Monarch Butterfly is a fascinating creature that you can easily identify in Sweden. This remarkable butterfly is well-known for its incredible migration and striking beauty.

Let’s get a closer look at its features and characteristics.

• Habitat: The Monarch Butterfly can be found in meadows, parks, gardens and various open spaces throughout Sweden.
• Appearance: The Monarch boasts bright orange wings with black veins and white spots on the wing tips.
• Size: With an average wingspan of 8.6-12.4 cm, the Monarch is one of the larger butterfly species in Sweden.
• Diet: As adults, they enjoy sipping nectar from flowers, while their larvae feed on the leaves of milkweed plants.
• Reproduction: The female Monarch lays her eggs on milkweed plants, and the caterpillars exclusively feed on these leaves.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Monarch Butterfly is about 2-6 weeks. However, the last generation of the season can live up to 9 months, allowing them to migrate and reproduce.
• Host Plants: As mentioned earlier, milkweed plants serve as the primary host plants for Monarch caterpillars.

With their striking colors, impressive migration, and close ties to milkweed plants, the Monarch Butterfly is truly a unique species to observe and appreciate in Sweden.

Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae)

The Small Tortoiseshell is one of the most recognizable and widespread butterflies in Sweden. This stunning butterfly is known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns.

Let’s dive into some of the essential characteristics of the Small Tortoiseshell butterfly:

• Habitat: Small Tortoiseshells are highly adaptable, thriving in various habitats, including gardens, parks, meadows, and woodland clearings. They can be found in many areas across Sweden during spring and summer months.
• Appearance: Distinguished by its striking orange and brown wings, adorned with black and blue spots, the Small Tortoiseshell is indeed a sight to behold. Some variation in color may occur in different regions.
• Size: An adult Small Tortoiseshell butterfly’s wingspan ranges from 45 to 65 mm, making it a medium-sized species.
• Diet: Similar to other butterflies, the primary source of nutrition for adults is nectar from various flowering plants.
• Reproduction: They typically breed twice each year, producing two generations of offspring. Females lay their eggs on the leaves of stinging nettles, where the caterpillars will feed and later pupate.
• Lifespan: Adult Small Tortoiseshells may live from two weeks to ten months, with the longest life spans occurring in the last generation of the year that overwinters in hibernation.
• Host Plants: Stinging nettles (Urtica dioica) are the primary host plant for Small Tortoiseshell larvae, providing a reliable food source for the developing caterpillars.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

The Red Admiral is an unmistakable butterfly species found throughout Sweden and is known for its striking colors and patterns.

Let’s explore some amazing facts about this beautiful insect:

• Habitat: Red Admirals are found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, woodlands, and meadows. They are commonly found in warmer areas and tend to migrate to colder regions in the summer.
• Appearance: These butterflies showcase a stunning combination of black, red, and white colors. They are easily recognized by their black wings with bold red bands and white spots on the wingtips.
• Size: The average wingspan of a Red Admiral is between 64-78 mm, making it a fairly large butterfly.
• Diet: The adult Red Admiral feeds primarily on nectar from flowers such as buddleia, thistles, and ivy. The caterpillars feed on stinging nettles, which are their main host plant.
• Reproduction: Female Red Admirals lay single eggs on the underside of host plant leaves. After about a week, the caterpillars emerge and form a chrysalis, transforming into butterflies within two weeks.
• Lifespan: The adult Red Admiral’s lifespan lasts up to six weeks, with most of their life spent searching for nectar and mating partners.
• Host Plants: Their primary host plant is the stinging nettle, but they can also be found on other plants like the hop and the small nettle.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

The Painted Lady is a real stand-out among the butterfly species you can find in Sweden. It’s not only captivating, but it also has some interesting traits.

Here are some key facts about the Painted Lady:

• Habitat: You can find this species throughout Sweden, preferring open, sunny areas such as meadows, gardens, and forests.
• Appearance: They boast vibrant colors, with a beautiful orange and black pattern on their wings, featuring white spots on the tips.
• Size: These beauties have a wingspan of about 5 to 9 centimeters.
• Diet: Adults love sipping on nectar from various flowers, while the caterpillars feed on a range of host plants.
• Reproduction: The females lay their eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves. The caterpillars that emerge feed on the plant until they form a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for 2 to 4 weeks, allowing enough time to mate and lay eggs.
• Host Plants: Some common host plants include thistles, mallows, and legumes, providing the much-needed sustenance for the caterpillars.

Add the Painted Lady to your list of must-see butterflies in Sweden, and enjoy its enchanting appearance and fascinating life cycle.

Comma Butterfly (Polygonia c-album)

The Comma Butterfly, scientifically known as Polygonia c-album, is a fascinating species found in Sweden, famous for its unique wing shape and markings.

This butterfly has adapted well to various habitats, making it a versatile and widespread species.

Let’s explore more about this remarkable butterfly.

• Habitat: Comma Butterflies thrive in a variety of habitats, including woodland edges, hedgerows, gardens, and grasslands.
• Appearance: The wings display a bright orange color with dark brown markings and a distinctive comma-shaped white mark on the underside, giving them their name.
• Size: Adults have a wingspan of approximately 45-55 mm, making them medium-sized butterflies.
• Diet: Adult Comma Butterflies feed on nectar from flowers, while the caterpillars primarily eat leaves from their host plants.
• Reproduction: These butterflies lay eggs on host plants in spring, and the caterpillars develop through several instars before forming a chrysalis to pupate.
• Lifespan: Adult Comma Butterflies typically live for about 2 to 3 weeks during the summer months.
• Host Plants: The main host plants for Comma caterpillars are nettles (Urtica dioica) and elm (Ulmus spp.), but they can also be found on other deciduous trees and shrubs, such as currant (Ribes spp.) and hops (Humulus lupulus).

Peacock Butterfly (Aglais io)

The Peacock Butterfly is a widely recognized and popular species in Sweden, known for its distinctive eye spots and vibrant colors.

Let’s learn more about this fascinating butterfly:

• Habitat: Peacock butterflies are found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, woodlands, meadows, and parks across Sweden.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a beautiful combination of red, black, and blue colors, with four large eye spots on their wings that resemble those of a peacock’s feathers.
• Size: A fully-grown Peacock butterfly has a wingspan of about 50 to 55 mm, making it one of the larger butterfly species in Sweden.
• Diet: The adult butterflies mainly feed on nectar from various flowers such as thistles, dandelions, and buddleias.
• Reproduction: Peacock butterflies typically produce one generation per year, with females laying their eggs on the leaves of host plants in spring.
• Lifespan: Adult Peacock butterflies typically live for around 11 months, making them one of the longest-lived butterfly species in Sweden.
• Host Plants: The main host plants for Peacock butterflies are stinging nettles (Urtica dioica), where the female butterflies lay their eggs, and the caterpillars feed on these plants before turning into pupae.

Scarce Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis xanthomelas)

The Scarce Tortoiseshell, also known as the Yellow-legged Tortoiseshell, is a striking species of butterfly that can be found in Sweden.

This beautiful creature is unique and certainly deserves the attention of any butterfly enthusiast.

Let’s explore some interesting facts about this rare species:

• Habitat: Scarce Tortoiseshell butterflies prefer open areas such as meadows, fields, and forest edges. They can also be found in gardens and parks.
• Appearance: The upper side of its wings features a stunning mix of orange, black, and yellow colors, with a distinct pattern of blue crescents along the edges. The underside has a more muted, brownish hue.
• Size: This species has a wingspan ranging from 50 to 60 millimeters.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of various willows and elms.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs in clusters on the host plants, and the caterpillars usually hatch within a week.
• Lifespan: The adult Scarce Tortoiseshell usually lives between 2-5 weeks, with one generation per year.
• Host Plants: The main host plants are different species of willows, including Salix caprea and Salix cinerea, as well as elms.

This remarkable butterfly is indeed scarce, so if you are lucky enough to spot one in the wild, it is surely a moment to cherish!

Keep an eye out for these striking insects during your next journey into Sweden’s natural landscapes.

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

Mourning Cloak, also known as Nymphalis antiopa, is a mesmerizing butterfly species that can be found across Sweden.

You may have already encountered this visually captivating butterfly, or perhaps you are eager to spot one in the wild.

Here is some information about the Mourning Cloak:

• Habitat: They prefer wooded areas, such as forests and parks, and are often found near sources of water.
• Appearance: Mourning Cloaks have wings that display a striking contrast of dark brown and yellow edges, with iridescent blue spots adorning the borders.
• Size: Their wingspan usually ranges between 6.2 – 10.2 cm, making them a moderately-sized butterfly.
• Diet: These butterflies enjoy feeding on tree sap, rotting fruit, and even carrion, adding an unexpected aspect to their diet.
• Reproduction: Males establish territories to attract females. After mating, females lay clusters of eggs on the host plant.
• Lifespan: Mourning Cloaks have an impressive lifespan of up to 11-12 months, longer than most butterfly species.
• Host Plants: They primarily choose willow, elm, and poplar trees for their host plants, providing a suitable environment for their caterpillars to grow and thrive.

Now that you know more about the Mourning Cloak, be sure to keep an eye out for this beautiful butterfly during your next walk.

Remember, they are commonly found in wooded areas near water sources.

Happy butterfly watching!

White Admiral (Limenitis Camilla)

The White Admiral is a charismatic butterfly species native to Sweden and parts of Europe.

This large butterfly flaunts its elegance as it soars through the woodlands, adding a mesmerizing touch to the landscape.

Let’s take a moment to discuss some intriguing facts about this beautiful butterfly species:

• Habitat: They reside mostly in deciduous woodlands, with a preference for habitats containing honeysuckle, which serves as its larval host plant.
• Appearance: The White Admiral features a striking pattern of black and white wings with wavy, white bands extending over the dark background. A few red spots adorn its rear wings.
• Size: The wingspan of this species ranges from approximately 60 to 70 millimeters, making it a relatively large butterfly.
• Diet: As adults, they mainly feed on nectar from various flowers, but also visit sap runs on trees and rotting fruits.
• Reproduction: White Admirals lay their eggs individually on the upperside of honeysuckle leaves, a crucial food source for the caterpillars.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan typically extends three to four weeks, but during this time they provide a captivating sight for woodland visitors.
• Host Plants: Honeysuckle is the most essential host plant for the White Admiral, as it is where the butterfly lays its eggs and supplies the primary food source for its caterpillars.

Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia)

The Silver-washed Fritillary is a butterfly species that adds charm and color to the Swedish landscapes.

Here, let’s take a closer look at this fascinating butterfly:

• Habitat: Mainly found in deciduous woodlands with open areas, such as forest clearings, and edges.
• Appearance: Beautiful golden-orange wings with dark spots on the upper side, and a unique silver streak on the dark brown underside, making it easily identifiable.
• Size: This butterfly is one of the largest fritillaries, having a wingspan of about 54-70mm.
• Diet: Silver-washed Fritillaries primarily feed on nectar from flowers like thistles, brambles, and wild privet.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in flight, and females lay their eggs singly on tree trunks or bark crevices close to violets – their caterpillar host plant.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for around three to four weeks during the summer months.
• Host Plants: The larvae feed on various violet species, such as the common dog-violet (Viola riviniana) and the heath dog-violet (Viola canina).

Now that you’re more familiar with this captivating butterfly, keep an eye out for it during your next woodland outing in Sweden!

Dark Green Fritillary (Speyeria aglaja)

The Dark Green Fritillary (Speyeria aglaja) is one of the most mesmerizing butterfly species you can find in Sweden.

This stunning butterfly is an essential part of the ecosystem, playing a vital role in pollination.

Let’s take a closer look at some of its fascinating characteristics:

• Habitat: The Dark Green Fritillary can be found in various habitats, including meadows, coastal dunes, woodland clearings, and even mountain slopes.
• Appearance: This butterfly is named after the dark green hue on the underside of its wings, adorned with elegant silver spots.
• Size: With a wingspan of around 50-64 mm, this species is considered medium-sized and highly visible in its natural habitat.
• Diet: Adult Dark Green Fritillaries feed primarily on nectar from flowering plants such as thistles, knapweeds, and violets.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs singly on the leaves of host plants, which caterpillars use for food and shelter.
• Lifespan: These butterflies have a relatively short lifespan of around 2-4 weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars of the Dark Green Fritillary feed mainly on violets (Viola species), which are essential for the butterfly’s survival and reproduction.

In conclusion, the Dark Green Fritillary is an enchanting butterfly species that can be observed in various habitats across Sweden.

Make sure to keep an eye out for its intriguing dark green wings on your next nature walk.

High Brown Fritillary (Argynnis adippe)

The High Brown Fritillary is an enthralling butterfly species found in Sweden, and it belongs to the Nymphalidae family.

These striking butterflies prefer to inhabit grassy meadows, woodland clearings, and warm hillsides.

They possess large wings that showcase a warm orange hue, adorned with black spots and lace-like patterns on the edges.

• Habitat: Grassy meadows, woodland clearings, warm hillsides
• Appearance: Large wings with orange color, black spots and lace-like patterns on the edges
• Size: Medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 54-70mm
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from various flowers, while the caterpillars prefer dog violets and marsh violets
• Reproduction: Females usually lay their eggs on or near the host plants during mid-summer
• Lifespan: Adult butterflies have a short lifespan of about two to three weeks
• Host Plants: Primarily violets, specifically dog violets and marsh violets

Keep an eye out for these elegant butterflies as you wander through the beautiful landscapes of Sweden.

Their distinctive markings are sure to impress anyone fortunate enough to spot them.

Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria euphrosyne)

The Pearl-bordered Fritillary is a captivating butterfly species that is commonly found in Sweden.

This delicate creature has an enchanting appearance that makes it a treat for butterfly enthusiasts.

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer open woodlands, forest clearings, and grassy areas that are near to their host plants.
• Appearance: The Pearl-bordered Fritillary has a beautiful orange coloration with patches of black markings. Its main attraction is the row of pearl-like spots along the edge of the wings, giving it its name.
• Size: With a wingspan of about 38-44 millimeters, the Pearl-bordered Fritillary is a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Adults feed primarily on nectar from flowers such as violets, bugle, and thistles.
• Reproduction: The female butterfly lays her eggs on or near violets, the main larval food plant. The caterpillars will then feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: The adult butterfly typically lives for around 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Caterpillars of the Pearl-bordered Fritillary primarily feed on various species of violets, making these plants an essential part of their lifecycle.

With its extraordinary appearance and interesting habits, the Pearl-bordered Fritillary never fails to astonish and captivate those who come across it in its natural habitat.

Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene)

The Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary is an attractive butterfly that can be found in various parts of Sweden.

This species is known for its distinctive markings and behavior, making it a fascinating subject for butterfly enthusiasts.

Here’s what you need to know about this charming creature:

• Habitat: It thrives in damp, grassy areas, including wet meadows, marshes, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: It has orange wings with black spots, adorned with delicate silvery-blue spots along the wing edges.
• Size: The wingspan ranges from 35-45 mm, making it a relatively small butterfly.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as marsh thistle and bugle, while the caterpillars consume violet leaves.
• Reproduction: It has one generation per year, with females laying eggs on the host plant’s leaves.
• Lifespan: The adult life stage lasts about three weeks, while the caterpillar stage can last up to a year.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants are different species of violets, particularly the common dog-violet and marsh violet.

Now that you’re familiar with the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, be sure to keep an eye out for this unique butterfly on your next nature walk in Sweden.

Mountain Fritillary (Boloria napaea)

The Mountain Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species native to Sweden that thrives in colder climates and alpine habitats.

Let’s take a closer look at this captivating butterfly:

• Habitat: Mountain Fritillaries are often found in alpine meadows and high-elevation moorlands, where their larval host plants grow.
• Appearance: The Mountain Fritillary exhibits a distinct orange and brown pattern on the upperside of its wings, with a checkerboard-like appearance on the underside.
• Size: It has a wingspan of approximately 35-42 millimeters, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: The adult Mountain Fritillaries primarily feed on nectar from various flowers like violets and thistles.
• Reproduction: The female lays her eggs on the larval host plants, often choosing several locations to ensure survival.
• Lifespan: The adult Mountain Fritillary typically lives for 3-4 weeks.
• Host Plants: Larvae feed primarily on violets, specifically Alpine and Heath Dog-violets.

With its striking markings and preference for colder environments, the Mountain Fritillary truly stands out among Swedish butterflies.

Exploring the alpine meadows and moorlands in Sweden, you might just be lucky enough to spot this beautiful species.

Glanville Fritillary (Melitaea cinxia)

The Glanville Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Sweden, drawing the attention of wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

This unique little creature has some interesting characteristics worth noting:

• Habitat: Glanville Fritillary thrives in sunny open meadows, grasslands, woodland clearings, and coastal dunes. They tend to avoid densely wooded areas and favor habitats with diverse plant species.
• Appearance: This butterfly is recognized by the beautiful checkerboard pattern on its wings, featuring orange, brown, and white patches. The underside of its wings is gray with an intricate pattern.
• Size: The Glanville Fritillary has a wingspan of about 35-45 mm, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: The adults primarily feed on nectar from various wildflowers, such as dandelions, thistles, and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in spring and females lay single eggs on the leaves of host plants. They lay their eggs on the underside of the leaves to provide protection.
• Lifespan: The adult butterfly has a brief life, often lasting just a few weeks.
• Host Plants: Caterpillars of the Glanville Fritillary feed on plantains (Plantago species) and ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), while adults prefer nectar from a variety of wildflowers.

So, next time you’re exploring the Swedish countryside or coastlines, keep an eye out for these captivating creatures and appreciate their unique beauty.

Meadow Fritillary (Melitaea parthenoides)

The Meadow Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Sweden.

This striking creature can be spotted in various habitats and boasts a unique appearance that sets it apart from other species.

Here is some information about the Meadow Fritillary to help you get to know it better:

• Habitat: The species inhabits meadows, grasslands, and open forests, making it well-adapted to a variety of ecosystems.
• Appearance: The Meadow Fritillary displays a mix of bright orange and black markings on its wings with white fringes. This unique pattern contributes to its eye-catching appearance.
• Size: With a wingspan of around 28-42 mm, the Meadow Fritillary is considered a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: The adult butterflies feed primarily on nectar from various wildflowers like dandelions and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on suitable host plants, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves before eventually forming a chrysalis and emerging as butterflies.
• Lifespan: The adult Meadow Fritillary typically has a short but active lifespan of a few weeks during the summer months.
• Host Plants: Caterpillars of this species primarily feed on plants from the Asteraceae family, such as hawkbit and sow-thistle.

Keep an eye out for this captivating butterfly species on your next outdoor adventure in Sweden, and be sure to appreciate its unique beauty and the important role it plays in its ecosystem!

Spotted Fritillary (Melitaea didyma)

The Spotted Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species, showcasing captivating patterns that set it apart.

Here, we’ll look at some of the key attributes related to its habitat, appearance, size, diet, reproduction, lifespan, and preferred host plants.

• Habitat: These butterflies enjoy living in diverse environments. They’re commonly found in sunny, flowery meadows, grasslands, forest clearings, and even mountainous areas.
• Appearance: Its wings display a beautiful array of orange coloration with noticeable black spots and lines, making for an impressive sight.
• Size: Medium-sized butterfly, with a wingspan ranging from 35 to 50 millimeters (1.4 to 2 inches).
• Diet: Adult Spotted Fritillaries feed on the nectar from various flowering plants, while the caterpillars primarily munch on violets and plantains.
• Reproduction: Like most butterflies, they lay eggs on the underparts of leaves of host plants, which then hatch into caterpillars. The caterpillars then build a cocoon where they metamorph.
• Lifespan: The Spotted Fritillary, in general, has a short lifespan. Adults typically live for 2 to 3 weeks during the summer months.
• Host Plants: Some of the preferred host plants for these butterflies include violets, plantains, and other low-growing plants.

Exploring the characteristics of the Spotted Fritillary opens your eyes to the beauty and wonder of this exquisite butterfly.

Grayling (Hipparchia semele)

The Grayling is a fascinating butterfly species that you can find in Sweden.

This beautiful insect has some unique characteristics, which sets it apart from other butterflies.

• Habitat: Graylings favor open habitats such as heathlands, grasslands, and coastal dunes. They also thrive in areas with sparse vegetation where they can easily blend into their environment.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a unique coloration, with a mixture of gray, brown, and subtle orange hues on their wings. The intricate pattern helps them camouflage flawlessly in their natural surroundings.
• Size: Graylings have a wingspan of approximately 40-52 mm, making them moderately-sized butterflies.
• Diet: Adult Graylings mainly feed on nectar from flowering plants. Their favorite sources include heathers, thistles, and brambles.
• Reproduction: Female Graylings typically lay their eggs on the ground or at the base of host plants. The larvae hatch and feed on the plants, eventually turning into pupa before transforming into stunning adults.
• Lifespan: Graylings have a life cycle of around one year. Adults can live for several weeks during the summer months.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for Grayling larvae are various grass species, with fescues and bents being common choices.

Wall Brown (Lasiommata megera)

Meet the Wall Brown, a fascinating butterfly species you can find in Sweden.

This butterfly is quite unique, and learning about its traits will undoubtedly be an interesting experience.

Here’s a rundown of the Wall Brown’s notable characteristics:

• Habitat: Wall Brown butterflies are typically found in grasslands, meadows, and urban areas with open spaces.
• Appearance: They have orangish-brown wings with black markings, along with a black and white fringe around the edges.
• Size: These butterflies are medium-sized, with a wingspan of 1.8-2.0 inches (45-50 millimeters).
• Diet: The Wall Brown feeds on nectar from a variety of plants, including thistles and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: Females can lay up to 200 eggs on grass leaves, and the caterpillars go through five instar stages before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adult Wall Brown butterflies have a relatively short lifespan of about four weeks.
• Host Plants: Their larvae feed on different grass species, such as fescues (Festuca spp.) and bents (Agrostis spp.).

Keep an eye out for these attractive butterflies when exploring Sweden’s diverse habitats, and don’t forget to appreciate their unique beauty.

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus)

The Small Heath butterfly is a fascinating species native to Sweden that you may encounter during your outdoor adventures.

Found in various habitats and displaying a subtle beauty, this butterfly has an intricate life cycle that is worth learning about.

• Habitat: Widespread across Sweden, the Small Heath favors sunny, open spaces such as meadows, grasslands, heathlands, and even sand dunes.
• Appearance: Boasting an understated elegance, the Small Heath has a pale brown upper side with an orange band and a small black dot on the forewing. Its underside is a grayish beige with faint eye spots.
• Size: This tiny butterfly has a wingspan ranging from 25 to 34 millimeters, making it quite difficult to spot.
• Diet: Small Heath butterflies primarily feed on nectar from flowering plants such as clovers, dandelions, and thistles.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on different species of grass, where the caterpillars will feed and develop.
• Lifespan: Adult Small Heath butterflies have a short life, lasting only a few weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars feed mostly on fine grasses, including Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, and Poa annua.

When you’re out exploring the beautiful Swedish landscape, keep an eye out for the elusive Small Heath butterfly, a remarkable yet subtle inhabitant of meadows and grasslands.

Large Heath (Coenonympha tullia)

The Large Heath is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in the Swedish landscape.

With its unique features and habits, it is worth learning more about this beautiful insect.

• Habitat: The Large Heath prefers wet and damp moorlands, bogs, and marshlands. In Sweden, they can be seen in the northern parts of the country as well as in some southern parts.
• Appearance: This butterfly is quite similar to the Small Heath but has more rounded wings. Its upperside is light brown with small orange spots and a few eye-like markings on the edge of the hindwing, while the underside is of paler brown color showing similar markings.
• Size: The wingspan of the Large Heath ranges between 38 to 47 mm, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Adult Large Heaths feed on the nectar from plants like cross-leaved heath and heather, while the caterpillars feed on host plants.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in June, and the females lay their eggs on or near the host plants in clusters. The caterpillars hatch within a few weeks and overwinter as small larvae.
• Lifespan: The adult Large Heath’s lifespan is about one month, while the whole life cycle lasts around one year.
• Host Plants: The larval host plants of Large Heath are various sedges, particularly the Hare’s-tail Cottongrass and other species of the genus Eriophorum.

Marbled White (Melanargia galathea)

The Marbled White butterfly is a striking species native to Sweden and other parts of Europe.

This butterfly is loved for its distinct black and white markings, making it a highly sought-after sighting amongst butterfly enthusiasts.

Here’s some more information about this beautiful species:

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer open grasslands, meadows, and, on occasion, woodland areas with plenty of flowering plants.
• Appearance: The Marbled White’s wings exhibit an intricate, checkerboard-like pattern of black and white, giving it a marbled appearance.
• Size: Its wingspan can range between 37mm to 52mm, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Adult Marbled White butterflies feed primarily on nectar from plants like thistles and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in July, after which females deposit their eggs on the stalks of various grasses.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for about three weeks during the summer months.
• Host Plants: The larvae primarily feed on various species of grasses, such as red fescue and sheep’s fescue.

Now that you know more about the Marbled White butterfly, keep an eye out for these elegant creatures next time you explore Sweden’s stunning landscapes.

Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines)

Orange-tip is a beautiful butterfly species that is commonly found in Sweden.

This bright and eye-catching butterfly adds a dash of color to the landscape and is particularly active during the spring and summer months.

Here’s a quick rundown of the key characteristics of this lovely species:

• Habitat: Orange-tip butterflies prefer damp environments, such as meadows with a mix of grass and wildflowers. You can also find them in hedgerows and woodland areas.
• Appearance: The male has striking orange tips on its white wings, while the female has mainly white wings with black tips. Both sexes have a marbled green and white pattern on their undersides, making them well camouflaged when at rest.
• Size: Orange-tip butterflies typically have a wingspan of around 4 to 5 cm.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers, such as cuckooflower and garlic mustard.
• Reproduction: The female orange-tip lays eggs individually on the food plant, often on the flower buds or stems. The eggs hatch into green caterpillars that blend in seamlessly with the surroundings.
• Lifespan: Adult orange-tip butterflies have a short life expectancy of about two weeks, during which they breed and lay eggs.
• Host Plants: Orange-tip caterpillars mainly feed on plants from the mustard family, including garlic mustard, cuckooflower, and dame’s violet.

Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni)

The Brimstone butterfly is an enchanting species that you can find in Sweden.

This butterfly brings beauty and elegance to its surroundings. Below are some intriguing facts about the Brimstone:

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer broadleaved and mixed deciduous woodland with presence of sunny glades as well as scrub, hedgerows and meadows.
• Appearance: Brimstone butterflies showcase a pale, lemon-yellow color with leaf-shaped wings, making them look unique and exquisite.
• Size: The wingspan of Brimstone butterflies ranges between 50 and 60 millimeters.
• Diet: Adult Brimstones feed mostly on nectar from plants like knapweed, thistles, and butterfly bush.
• Reproduction: Brimstone butterflies lay single eggs on host plants, typically on buckthorn leaves.
• Lifespan: The adult Brimstone experiences a relatively long lifespan, living up to 13 months.
• Host Plants: Buckthorn and alder buckthorn are the primary host plants for Brimstone caterpillars.

Now that you know more about the Brimstone butterfly, keep an eye out for this stunning species while exploring Sweden’s breathtaking nature.

Large White (Pieris brassicae)

The Large White, also known as the cabbage butterfly, is a widespread butterfly species found in Sweden.

This versatile butterfly can adapt to various habitats, making it one of the most common species in the country.

Let’s delve into some fascinating facts about this butterfly:

• Habitat: They prefer open countryside, gardens, meadows, and farmland, but can also be seen around urban areas.
• Appearance: The Large White showcases broad white wings with black tips on the upper side and a grayish-yellow underside.
• Size: These butterflies have a wingspan of approximately 60-70 mm, making them one of the larger white butterfly species.
• Diet: Adult Large Whites primarily feed on nectar from flowers, while their caterpillars munch on the leaves of a variety of plants, primarily those from the cabbage family.
• Reproduction: The female lays clusters of bright yellow eggs on the underside of host plant leaves, which will then hatch into caterpillars in a week or two.
• Lifespan: The adult Large White has a relatively short lifespan of around three weeks.
• Host Plants: Some host plants for their caterpillars include brassicas such as cabbages, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, as well as wild species like garlic mustard and nasturtiums.

With its unmistakable appearance and ubiquitous presence, the Large White is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable butterfly species in Sweden.

Small White (Pieris rapae)

The Small White, also known as the Small Cabbage White, is a widespread butterfly species in Sweden.

This friendly butterfly is easily identifiable, and you’ll likely come across them in various habitats.

Let’s take a closer look at the Small White:

• Habitat: They are found in a variety of environments, such as gardens, meadows, and open woodlands.
• Appearance: The Small White features white wings with a few black spots and an underside which has a hint of yellow.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges between 32 to 47 mm, making them quite a petite butterfly.
• Diet: Adult Small Whites feed on nectar from a wide variety of flowers, while the caterpillars enjoy eating leaves.
• Reproduction: Like many butterfly species, they lay eggs on host plants, which hatch into caterpillars and eventually transform into butterflies.
• Lifespan: The life expectancy of Small Whites is around 3 to 4 weeks in butterfly form.
• Host Plants: They prefer plants from the Brassicaceae family, such as cabbage, kale, and broccoli, earning them the name “Cabbage White.”

Whether fluttering through your garden or spotted on a woodland walk, the Small White is a charming butterfly species to appreciate in Sweden.

Green-veined White (Pieris napi)

The Green-veined White is a widespread and common butterfly species in Sweden. It can easily be spotted in various habitats, but it is more likely to find them in damp and grassy areas.

Let’s look at a few characteristics of this beautiful creature:

• Habitat: Primarily found in damp meadows, wetlands, woodlands, and even gardens.
• Appearance: Characterized by its white wings with greyish-green veins and small black spots or markings.
• Size: A relatively small butterfly with a wingspan of 40-52 mm.
• Diet: The adult butterflies primarily feed on nectar from various wildflowers like buttercups, dandelions, and clovers.
• Reproduction: They can have up to two generations per year, depending on the climate. The female lays pale yellow eggs on different host plants.
• Lifespan: The adult butterfly has a relatively short lifespan of around three weeks.
• Host Plants: Some of the common host plants include wild species of cabbage and cruciferous plants like garlic mustard, cuckooflower, and various plants in the Brassicaceae family.

The Green-veined White is a fascinating species to observe in the wild, and its presence contributes to the rich biodiversity of Sweden’s various ecosystems.

Black-veined White (Aporia crataegi)

The Black-veined White is an appealing butterfly species that you can find in Sweden.

Let’s dive into some interesting facts about this beautiful creature:

• Habitat: You’ll usually find them in habitats like orchards, woodlands, hedgerows, and meadows where they can easily locate their host plants.
• Appearance: They are easily distinguishable by their striking white wings marked with black veins, giving them a unique and mesmerizing look.
• Size: With a wingspan ranging from 51-64 mm, they are decently sized and easily noticeable when spotted.
• Diet: As caterpillars, they feed on host plants like hawthorn, blackthorn, and cherry. Adult butterflies, on the other hand, prefer nectar from a variety of flowering plants.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs during the flight period, and females lay their eggs in clusters on the host plants, resulting in a highly social larval stage.
• Lifespan: The average life expectancy of the Black-veined White is around 14 days, though it may vary depending on factors like climate and predation.
• Host Plants: Some common host plants for these butterflies are hawthorn, blackthorn, cherry, and rowan.

With its distinct appearance and fascinating life cycle, the Black-veined White is an undoubtedly captivating species to observe in Sweden.

Mountain Ringlet (Erebia epiphron)

Mountain Ringlet is a unique butterfly species found in Sweden. This butterfly is primarily associated with alpine environments, making it stand out among other species.

Let’s take a closer look at the Mountain Ringlet:

• Habitat: Primarily found in alpine and subalpine meadows and grasslands between 1000 and 2500 meters above sea level.
• Appearance: Mountain Ringlet has a dark brown base color with orange bands and black spots on the wings. It’s worth noting that the females are larger and have lighter-colored bands.
• Size: It is a small-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 30 to 38 millimeters.
• Diet: The adults primarily feed on nectar from various flowers in their mountain habitat, such as thrifts and hawkweeds.
• Reproduction: The Mountain Ringlet has a single brood per year; females lay their eggs singly on grass blades or nearby plants.
• Lifespan: The adult butterfly typically lives for around three weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Mountain Ringlet caterpillar are different species of grass, such as Poa, Nardus, and Festuca.

Now you have a clear understanding of the Mountain Ringlet and its significance among Swedish butterfly species.

Conclusion

In summary, Sweden is home to an incredible array of 30 butterfly species, each with unique characteristics and habitats.

These colorful creatures not only bring beauty to the natural environment but also play an essential role in the ecosystem.

Feel free to leave a comment about your favorite Swedish butterfly or share any interesting facts or observations you’ve made.