30 Butterfly Species in Wales

When exploring the beautiful landscapes of Wales, you’ll be delighted to discover a diverse array of butterfly species fluttering about.

These delicate insects not only serve as a valuable resource for pollination but also add a splash of color and enchantment to your adventure.

In this article, we will introduce you to 30 charming butterfly species native to the region, so you can identify and appreciate these fascinating creatures on your next journey through the Welsh countryside.

Small White (Pieris rapae)

The Small White, also known as the Small Cabbage White, is a common butterfly species in Wales.

You can easily spot these beautiful insects fluttering around gardens, meadows, and other grassy areas.

Let’s dive into the details of the Small White:

• Habitat: They are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats such as gardens, meadows, hedgerows, and even urban areas.
• Appearance: Their wings are predominantly white with black spots on the forewings, and a black or grayish smudge on the wingtips.
• Size: They have a wingspan of about 3.8 – 6.4 cm, making them relatively small in size.
• Diet: As adults, they feed on nectar from flowers, while the caterpillars feed on the leaves of cruciferous plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay clusters of yellowish eggs on the leaves of host plants, mostly in spring and summer.
• Lifespan: The adult butterflies have a short lifespan of about 2 – 6 weeks.
• Host Plants: They are often found on plants from the Brassicaceae family, such as cabbage, broccoli, and kale.

These fascinating butterflies add a touch of beauty to the Welsh landscape, so take a moment to observe and appreciate their presence when you encounter them.

Large White (Pieris brassicae)

The Large White, also known as the Cabbage White, is a common butterfly species in Wales.

You can easily recognize this butterfly with its distinct white wings and black markings.

Below are a few essential facts about the Large White:

• Habitat: They can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, farmland, meadows, and urban areas.
• Appearance: Large Whites have white wings with black tips on the forewings. Females also have two black spots on each forewing, while males have one spot.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 50 to 63 mm (2 to 2.5 inches).
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from various flowers, while the caterpillars primarily eat cultivated cabbages and other brassicas.
• Reproduction: The Large White produces two generations a year, with females laying eggs on the undersides of the host plants’ leaves.
• Lifespan: The adult butterflies live for approximately two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: Some common host plants for caterpillars include cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

As you explore the beautiful countryside of Wales, make sure to keep an eye out for the lovely Large White butterfly, fluttering among the flowers and vibrant greens of the landscape.

Green-veined White (Pieris napi)

The Green-veined White (Pieris napi) is a commonly seen butterfly species in Wales.

This beautiful creature is an excellent pollinator, playing an essential role in wildflower meadows and gardens.

• Habitat: Green-veined Whites flourish in diverse environments. They are found in woodland clearings, hedgerows, wildflower meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: This butterfly is named for the green veins found on the underside of its hindwings. The wings are primarily white with a pale yellow or green tinge.
• Size: These butterflies have a wingspan of around 4-5 cm, making them slightly smaller than the Large White.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from a variety of wildflowers, including dandelions, wild orchids, and knapweed.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs during spring and summer. Females lay their eggs individually on the leaves of various plants, including wild and cultivated crucifers.
• Lifespan: Adult Green-veined Whites have a lifespan of 2-3 weeks. Like other butterflies, they undergo a complete metamorphosis, progressing from egg to larva, pupa, and finally adult.
• Host Plants: Larvae feed on a variety of host plants, such as garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), watercress (Nasturtium officinale), and creeping yellow cress (Rorippa sylvestris).

Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines)

You might have already stumbled upon the Orange-tip butterfly during one of your nature walks in Wales.

This lovely creature boasts not only a unique character but also a marvelous appearance.

Let’s get to know it better:

• Habitat: Orange-tips prefer damp habitats like hedgerows, wetlands, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: Males have bright orange tips on their white wings, while females have white-tipped wings with grey-black mottling.
• Size: These butterflies have a wingspan of about 4-5cm (1.6-2 inches).
• Diet: Adult Orange-tips feed on nectar from various flowers, whereas the caterpillars feed on the leaves of food plants.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs during spring, and the female lays single eggs on the flower buds of specific host plants.
• Lifespan: The adult lifespan of an Orange-tip butterfly is around 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Crucifers like cuckooflower, garlic mustard, and hedge mustard are common host plants for Orange-tip caterpillars.

The next time you’re in one of the lovely damp habitats in Wales, be sure to keep an eye out for the striking Orange-tip butterfly.

Its vibrant appearance and unique traits make it a cherished species among enthusiasts.

Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni)

The Brimstone butterfly is a fascinating species found in Wales. It is known for its uniquely shaped wings and vibrant coloration.

Let’s dive into the details of this charming butterfly:

• Habitat: Brimstones are found in woodlands, hedgerows, and gardens, mainly in areas with plenty of nectar-producing plants.
• Appearance: They have leaf-shaped wings, with males boasting a bright yellow color and females displaying a paler greenish-yellow hue.
• Size: Brimstones have a wingspan of about 60-70mm, making them medium-sized butterflies.
• Diet: These butterflies feed mainly on the nectar of various flowers, including those in the pea and cabbage families.
• Reproduction: In April and May, female Brimstones lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants such as Buckthorn and Alder Buckthorn.
• Lifespan: Adult Brimstones have a relatively long lifespan, ranging from three to four months, often hibernating over winter.
• Host Plants: Buckthorn and Alder Buckthorn are the primary host plants for Brimstone larvae, which feed on the leaves throughout their life cycle.

Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus)

The Holly Blue is a fascinating butterfly native to Wales, and its captivating beauty adds to the country’s rich biodiversity.

This section will help you explore various aspects of the Holly Blue butterfly, from its habitat to its reproduction process.

• Habitat: Holly Blues are commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and gardens with abundant holly and ivy plants.
• Appearance: These butterflies boast a vibrant blue color on the upper side of their wings, with a pale blue underside adorned with small black spots.
• Size: Holly Blues are small butterflies, with a wingspan of approximately 28-35mm.
• Diet: The larvae of Holly Blues feed on holly and ivy leaves, while the adult butterflies primarily feed on flower nectar and aphid honeydew.
• Reproduction: Holly Blues have two broods per year, with the first generation emerging in April and May, and the second between July and September.
• Lifespan: The adult Holly Blue butterfly has a short lifespan, living for approximately three to four weeks.
• Host Plants: Their primary host plants are holly and ivy, although they have been known to use other plants such as spindle and dogwood for egg-laying and larvae feeding.

Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus)

The Common Blue is a beautiful and widespread butterfly species that you can find in Wales.

They are known for their striking blue wings, which are quite vibrant and eye-catching.

Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating butterfly:

• Habitat: Common Blue butterflies prefer open grassy areas, such as meadows, gardens, parks, and even roadside verges.
• Appearance: As the name suggests, they feature bright blue wings with a black border and white fringe. Females have a more brownish hue with blue flecks near the body.
• Size: These butterflies are relatively small, with a wingspan of around 30-35mm.
• Diet: As adults, the Common Blue mainly feeds on nectar from various flowers, with a preference for legume flowers like clover and bird’s-foot trefoil.
• Reproduction: Common Blue butterflies usually breed between May and September, producing two or three broods per year.
• Lifespan: Their adult stage lasts for about 3 weeks, while the entire life cycle spans around 5-6 months from egg to end of adult life.
• Host Plants: The larvae of Common Blue butterflies usually feed on legume plants, such as bird’s-foot trefoil, clover, and vetch.

Common Blue butterflies are truly eye-catching species that can greatly enhance the biodiversity and visual appeal of various landscapes in Wales.

Keep an eye out for them when exploring meadows and other open grassy areas.

Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas)

The Small Copper is a quite fascinating butterfly species that is commonly seen in Wales.

They are known to be active little butterflies, seen frequently basking in sunshine or darting around at high speeds.

Let’s take a closer look at some features of this charming species:

• Habitat: Small Copper butterflies thrive in diverse habitats, including grasslands, woodland clearings, heathlands, and even your own back garden.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a distinctive bright coppery-orange color on their upper wings, with bold black spots and a dark border. Their underside is a pale gray with delicate, black spot markings.
• Size: With a wingspan of 25-40mm, the Small Copper butterflies are indeed quite small, yet vibrant members of the Lepidoptera family.
• Diet: As adults, they primarily feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, such as dandelions, thistles, and buttercups.
• Reproduction: Between April and October, females lay eggs on the underside of leaves, specifically those of the common sorrel or sheep’s sorrel plants.
• Lifespan: The Small Copper butterfly has a relatively short lifespan, living for only a few weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: Caterpillars feed on the leaves of common sorrel and sheep’s sorrel, which are essential for their growth and development.

Small Copper butterflies are a delight to observe. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for these charming creatures the next time you’re exploring the natural beauty Wales has to offer.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

The Red Admiral, also known as Vanessa atalanta, is a fascinating butterfly species found in various habitats across Wales. It’s admired for its striking appearance and adaptability.

Here’s what you need to know about this beautiful butterfly:

• Habitat: Red Admirals inhabit woodlands, gardens, parks, and hedgerows, making them a common sight in urban and rural landscapes alike.
• Appearance: The species boasts striking black, red, and white wing markings that catch the eye as they fly through the air.
• Size: Red Admirals are medium-sized butterflies, with a wingspan ranging from 64 to 78 mm.
• Diet: Adult Red Admirals enjoy nectar from flowers, along with sap and overripe fruit, providing them with a varied and healthy diet.
• Reproduction: These butterflies partake in courtship rituals and lay their eggs on nettles, where caterpillars will hatch and feed.
• Lifespan: Adult Red Admirals typically live for around six weeks, depending on environmental factors and predators.
• Host Plants: Nettles serve as the primary host plant for Red Admirals, offering safe locations for egg-laying and a food source for caterpillars.

Peacock Butterfly (Aglais io)

The Peacock butterfly is one of the most striking and widely recognized butterfly species in Wales. With its bold eye patterns and vivid colors, it’s hard not to admire its beauty.

Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about this eye-catching butterfly:

• Habitat: Peacock butterflies are commonly found in gardens, woodlands, and hedgerows across Wales.
• Appearance: The upper surface of their wings features a striking pattern of large, blue and yellow eye-like spots on a deep red background, while their underside is a well-camouflaged dark brown.
• Size: They have a wingspan of about 50 to 61 mm, which is relatively large compared to other British butterflies.
• Diet: Adult Peacock butterflies feed on various nectar sources, such as buddleia and dandelions, while their caterpillars munch on stinging nettles.
• Reproduction: Female Peacocks lay their eggs in batches on nettles. The caterpillars, which are black with white speckles and spikes, will then hatch and form a communal web.
• Lifespan: Adults live for around 11 months, which is quite long for a butterfly. They hibernate during the winter, often in tree hollows or man-made structures like sheds.
• Host Plants: The main host plant for Peacock caterpillars is the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica).

Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae)

The Small Tortoiseshell is a common and widespread butterfly species in Wales, known for its stunning colours and adaptability to various habitats.

This butterfly brings a touch of beauty to gardens, parks, and meadows, especially during the warm summer months.

Here are some key aspects of the Small Tortoiseshell:

• Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, meadows, woodland clearings, and hedgerows.
• Appearance: They feature a vibrant pattern of orange-brown wings with black and yellow markings, along with blue spots at the margins.
• Size: The wingspan of a Small Tortoiseshell typically ranges between 45-62mm.
• Diet: Adults feed mainly on nectar from various flowering plants like thistles, dandelions, and buddleia.
• Reproduction: Females lay clusters of eggs underneath the leaves of host plants; their larvae then feed on these leaves before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: The adults have a lifespan of about two to three weeks, but those that emerge late in the season can hibernate and live until the following spring.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Small Tortoiseshell caterpillar are nettles, particularly the Common or Small Nettle.

By learning more about the Small Tortoiseshell, you can appreciate the beauty and complexity of this captivating species when you spot one in your garden or a nearby meadow.

Enjoy their presence and value their contribution to the ecosystem.

Comma (Polygonia c-album)

Are you fascinated by butterflies? You would be quite interested to know about Comma (Polygonia c-album), an attractive butterfly species native to Wales.

This distinct species showcases its magic in various habitats and possesses unique features:

• Habitat: Commas are commonly found in deciduous woodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and along the edges of forests.
• Appearance: Their unique ragged wing edges with a bright orange and brown pattern make them stand out from other butterflies. You can recognize this species by the small white ‘comma’ shape on its otherwise dark brown underside wings.
• Size: Comma butterflies have a wingspan of 4.0-4.5 cm, making them medium-sized butterflies.
• Diet: Adult Commas prefer to feed on nectar from wildflowers, buddleia, and bramble, as well as overripe fruits occasionally.
• Reproduction: They lay eggs on the leaves of host plants in early spring, which hatch in about two weeks into caterpillars.
• Lifespan: Adult Comma butterflies generally live for about three weeks, during which they mate, lay eggs, and also migrate to other areas.
• Host Plants: Nettle (Urtica dioica) and hop (Humulus lupulus) are the primary host plants for Comma caterpillars.

Keep an eye out for these lovely creatures during your nature walks in Wales!

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

The Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) is a widely distributed butterfly species in Wales that you’ll find enchanting.

Having a one-of-a-kind appearance and preference for various habitats, this butterfly is sure to grab your attention.

Here’s some information about the Painted Lady that you’ll find fascinating:

• Habitat: These butterflies are highly adaptable and can be spotted in a variety of environments, such as gardens, grasslands, and open areas with flowers.
• Appearance: The Painted Lady is known for its distinctive, orange and black wing pattern with striking white markings, making them easily recognizable.
• Size: With a wingspan of approximately 5-9 cm, these butterflies are considered medium-sized compared to other species in Wales.
• Diet: The adult Painted Lady feeds on nectar from various flowers, whereas the caterpillar feeds on thistles and other food plants.
• Reproduction: Mating takes place during spring and early summer, with females laying their eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: The adults have a relatively short life span, living for around 2-4 weeks.
• Host Plants: Painted Lady caterpillars prefer plants such as thistles, nettles, and mallows for feeding and laying their eggs.

All in all, the Painted Lady butterfly is a unique and adaptable species that can bring beauty and charm to any habitat you find them in.

Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria)

The Speckled Wood is a fascinating butterfly species that can often be spotted in Wales.

This charming creature has a few unique features that make it stand out among the other butterflies native to the region.

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

• Habitat: Speckled Woods prefer shady areas of woodland, hedgerows, and gardens where they can bask in dappled sunlight.
• Appearance: They have brown wings with creamy-yellow spots, creating a speckled pattern that provides excellent camouflage.
• Size: These butterflies have a wingspan of about 4-4.4 cm, making them relatively small in comparison to other species.
• Diet: As adults, they feed on nectar from various flowers such as bramble, dandelions, and ivy. The caterpillars prefer to munch on grasses.
• Reproduction: Speckled Woods are unique in having two or three generations per year, with some individuals overwintering as caterpillars or pupae.
• Lifespan: The adult butterflies usually live for about 3-4 weeks, while the caterpillars and pupae can survive much longer periods when overwintering.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars feed on several types of grasses, including common couch grass and Yorkshire fog.

As you can see, the Speckled Wood is a beautiful and intriguing butterfly species that plays an important role in the ecosystem of Wales.

Ringlet (Aphantopus hyperantus)

The Ringlet is a widespread butterfly species found across Wales. Its name comes from the small, eye-like rings on the underside of its wings.

Here are some key aspects of this fascinating butterfly:

• Habitat: Ringlets are commonly found in a variety of habitats, such as grasslands, meadows, hedgerows, and woodland clearings. They thrive in damp and sheltered areas with tall grass.
• Appearance: This butterfly has dark brown or black wings with several white-ringed black spots on the underside. The upperside of the wings is usually a uniform brown color.
• Size: The Ringlet has a wingspan of approximately 45-50 millimeters, making it a small to medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Adult Ringlets prefer to feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, such as bramble, thistles, and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: They produce a single brood each year, with the females laying eggs individually on the underside of grass blades.
• Lifespan: The adult Ringlet butterfly has a short life span, usually living for only 2 to 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for Ringlet caterpillars are various grass species, such as cocksfoot, creeping soft grass, and rough-stalked meadow grass.

Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina)

A commonly spotted butterfly in Wales, the Meadow Brown is a delightful sight that never fails to captivate observers.

With a graceful flight and an unassuming nature, let’s explore this fascinating species:

• Habitat: Meadow Browns are usually found in grasslands, meadows, and clearings in woodlands. They’re highly adaptable and can also be seen in urban environments like gardens and parks.
• Appearance: These butterflies showcase shades of brown on their wings with hints of orange. They also have a distinctive black eyespot surrounded by a white halo on their forewings.
• Size: Meadow Browns have a wingspan of about 4 to 5 centimeters, making them medium-sized butterflies.
• Diet: As adults, they primarily feed on nectar from various flowers like thistles and knapweeds.
• Reproduction: Males seek out females for mating during the peak season, usually between June and August. After mating, females lay their eggs on grasses, the primary food source for their larvae.
• Lifespan: The adult Meadow Brown has a lifespan of about three weeks, while the entire lifecycle takes approximately one year.
• Host Plants: These butterflies lay their eggs on a variety of grass species, such as fescues and meadow-grasses, as these plants provide essential nutrients for the growing larvae.

Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus)

The Gatekeeper, also known as the Hedge Brown, is a lovely addition to the butterfly species found in Wales.

This captivating creature is well-adapted to its environment, often blending seamlessly into the foliage.

In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the Gatekeeper butterfly, including its habitat, appearance, size, diet, reproduction, lifespan, and host plants.

• Habitat: Gatekeeper butterflies are commonly found in areas with hedges, woodland edges, gardens, and clearings. They prefer areas that receive a good amount of sunlight, often basking in the warm rays.
• Appearance: Boasting a rich orange-brown color, their wings feature a distinct eye-spot pattern on the forewings and a white fringe along the edges of the wings.
• Size: The Gatekeeper has a wingspan of approximately 35-45mm, fairly small compared to other butterflies of Wales.
• Diet: These butterflies mainly feast on a variety of nectar-rich flowers like thistles, brambles, and hogweed.
• Reproduction: Mating takes place in late summer, with females laying their eggs on different grass species. The eggs hatch into caterpillars, and then pupate during the winter months.
• Lifespan: Adult Gatekeeper butterflies typically live for two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for Gatekeeper butterfly caterpillars are various grass species, including bents (Agrostis spp.), fescues (Festuca spp.), and meadow grasses (Poa spp.).

Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus)

The Small Heath butterfly is a fascinating species that can be found in Wales.

Here, we will explore some interesting facts about this charming butterfly:

• Habitat: Small Heath butterflies favor grasslands, meadows, heathlands, and woodland clearings. They can also be found in rural areas such as pastures and roadside verges.
• Appearance: These butterflies have beige or light brown wings with a small, single eye-spot on the forewing. The underside of their wings is grayish-brown with subtle markings.
• Size: With a wingspan of 24-34 millimeters, the Small Heath butterfly is among the smallest in the United Kingdom.
• Diet: As adults, Small Heaths feed on nectar from various flowers, such as clovers, dandelions, and thistles.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in the afternoon, and females lay their eggs on or near the larval food plants. The caterpillars hatch and feed on grasses during the night.
• Lifespan: Adult Small Heaths live for approximately two weeks, while the entire life cycle takes around a year to complete.
• Host Plants: The larvae feed on grasses like fescues, sheep’s fescue, and sometimes bents and meadow-grasses.

Marbled White (Melanargia galathea)

The Marbled White butterfly is a beautiful and distinctive species that can be found in various habitats across Wales.

With its striking appearance and interesting life cycle, this butterfly is a true wonder of nature.

Let’s delve deeper into the fascinating world of the Marbled White:

• Habitat: Found in a range of habitats such as grasslands, meadows, woodland clearings, and the edges of forests.
• Appearance: Exhibits a stunning pattern of black and white marbled wings, which give this butterfly its name. The underwing is a subtle mix of grays and browns with white markings.
• Size: Mid-sized butterfly, with a wingspan of approximately 4-5 cm
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from wildflowers, such as knapweed and scabious flowers.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in July, with females laying their eggs singly on the stems of grasses. The caterpillars emerge a few weeks later, feeding on various grass species.
• Lifespan: Adult butterflies typically live for around two weeks, although the entire life cycle can last a year.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars feed primarily on grasses, especially Yorkshire-fog, which is their main host plant.

As you explore the wild beauty of Wales, keep an eye out for the striking Marbled White butterfly fluttering amidst the meadows and grasslands. Truly a hidden gem amongst the 30 butterfly species found in Wales.

Dark Green Fritillary (Speyeria aglaja)

The Dark Green Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species you’ll find in the Welsh countryside. As the name suggests, it displays a dark-green hue on the underside of its wings.

Let’s dive into some interesting facts and features about this magnificent creature.

• Habitat: Prefers grasslands, meadows, coastal dunes, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: Mottled dark-green pattern on the underside with silver spots, and orange-brown on the upperside with black spots.
• Size: Wingspan ranges between 54-70mm.
• Diet: As adults, they primarily feed on nectar from flowers such as thistles, knapweeds, and scabious.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on their host plants, mainly violets, in late summer and the eggs hatch in spring.
• Lifespan: Adult butterflies live for about 3-4 weeks.
• Host Plants: Common Dog Violet, Marsh Violet, and Heath Dog Violet are the main host plants for their caterpillars’ diet.

Now that you’ve learned a bit about the Dark Green Fritillary, keep an eye out for it when wandering around the idyllic landscapes of Wales!

Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia)

The Silver-washed Fritillary is a striking butterfly species, abundant in several parts of Wales. These beautiful butterflies offer a mesmerizing sight as they glide effortlessly through the air.

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

• Habitat: These graceful creatures primarily inhabit broad-leaved woodland, especially those with sunny glades or clearings.
• Appearance: With their bright orange wings marked with black spots, Silver-washed Fritillaries are truly eye-catching. They showcase an underwing pattern with delicate markings and silver streaks.
• Size: The wingspan of this species ranges from 54 to 70mm for males and slightly larger for females.
• Diet: Nectaring on a variety of flowers such as Brambles, Thistles, and Knapweed; Silver-washed Fritillaries contribute to pollination.
• Reproduction: The caterpillar hatches from the eggs after about 2 weeks and overwinters in tree cavities near the egg site before turning into a pupa in Spring.
• Lifespan: The adult butterfly typically lives for a few weeks in the summer months, allowing just enough time to feed and reproduce.
• Host Plants: The favorite host plants for Silver-washed Fritillary caterpillars are the Common Dog-violet and the Heath Dog-violet.

Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria euphrosyne)

The Pearl-bordered Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species found in Wales.

This captivating creature exhibits unique features and behaviors that make it stand out from other species.

Let’s take a closer look at its characteristics:

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer damp woodland clearings and grassy meadows with plenty of violets. They are often found in forest habitats, especially among woodland clearings.
• Appearance: The upper side of the wings exhibit bright orange with black markings, while the underside features intricate pearl-like designs, giving the butterfly its name.
• Size: This medium-sized butterfly measures between 38-46mm across the wingspan.
• Diet: Adult Pearl-bordered Fritillaries feed on nectar from flowering plants like bugle, bluebells, and bird’s-foot trefoil.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on the underside of violet leaves, with the caterpillars feeding on these host plants before pupating in ground litter.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for two to three weeks in May and June.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars of this species rely on Common Dog-violet (Viola riviniana) and Marsh Violet (Viola palustris) as their primary food sources.

Overall, the Pearl-bordered Fritillary is a beautiful and fascinating butterfly to look for during your outdoor adventures in Wales. Make sure to keep an eye out for these delicate creatures on your next hike through the countryside!

Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary (Boloria selene)

The Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, scientifically known as Boloria selene, is a fascinating butterfly species native to Wales and other parts of the United Kingdom.

Let’s explore some of their unique features:

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer damp and wet areas, such as grasslands, marshes, and fens. They can also be found in woodland clearings and moorlands.
• Appearance: Small Pearl-bordered Fritillaries have distinctive, orange wings adorned with an intricate pattern of cream or pearl-like markings on the borders.
• Size: This species has a wingspan of approximately 35-42mm.
• Diet: Adult butterflies primarily feed on nectar from flowers, such as thistles and bugle, while their caterpillars munch on a variety of violet species.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their habitat, searching for females to mate with. Females lay eggs on or near their preferred host plants, usually violets.
• Lifespan: The typical lifespan for this species is about a month for adults, with the entire life cycle lasting approximately one year.
• Host Plants: Caterpillars of the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary rely on different species of violets, such as Common Dog Violet, Marsh Violet, and Heath Violet, as their primary source of sustenance.

Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia)

The Marsh Fritillary is a fascinating butterfly species found in Wales. It holds a special place in the hearts of nature enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and habitat requirements.

Let’s dive a little deeper into the world of this beautiful creature:

• Habitat: This butterfly thrives in damp grassland areas, particularly in marshy fields and meadows rich in wildflowers. They usually prefer unimproved, moist pastures with diverse plant species.
• Appearance: The Marsh Fritillary features intricate patterns of orange, brown, and yellow on its wings, making it easily distinguishable from other species. They also have a distinctive checkerboard pattern on their wings.
• Size: The adult Marsh Fritillary has a wingspan ranging from 35 to 50 millimeters, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Adult Marsh Fritillaries feed on the nectar of various flowering plants, such as Devil’s-bit Scabious and Knapweed, for sustenance.
• Reproduction: Marsh Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs in clusters on the underside of their host plants, with the larvae hatching in about two weeks.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of an adult Marsh Fritillary is around three weeks, while the entire life cycle from egg to adult takes around a year.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for Marsh Fritillary larvae is Devil’s-bit Scabious, but they also feed on other plants in the Scabious family.

Grayling (Hipparchia semele)

The Grayling butterfly, scientifically known as Hipparchia semele, is a fascinating species of butterfly that can be found in various habitats across Wales.

They are unique in the sense that their appearance allows them to blend seamlessly with their environment.

Let’s explore some interesting facts about this remarkable butterfly:

• Habitat: Graylings can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodland clearings, heathlands, and coastal cliffs.
• Appearance: They have a cryptic appearance with brown and gray patterns on their wings, which enables camouflage against tree bark and stones.
• Size: Graylings are medium-sized butterflies, with a wingspan ranging from 45 to 58 millimeters.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from flowers such as thistles, knapweeds, and heathers.
• Reproduction: Graylings have one generation per year, with females laying eggs individually on grass blades or plant stems.
• Lifespan: Their adult lifespan is relatively short, lasting around two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars mainly feed on various grass species, including bents, fescues, and meadow-grasses.

The Grayling butterfly adds remarkable diversity to the butterfly species found in Wales.

Their unique features and adaptive capabilities make them an interesting species to explore for both amateurs and professional enthusiasts alike.

Purple Hairstreak (Favonius quercus)

The Purple Hairstreak is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Wales.

Below are some noteworthy aspects of its life and behavior:

• Habitat: These butterflies are typically found in oak woodlands and along hedgerows with oak trees, as they have a strong affinity to their main host, the oak tree.
• Appearance: Adult Purple Hairstreaks are small and difficult to spot due to their camouflaged dark-brown and purple wings with a thin white border. The underside has a white ‘streak’ and a small orange ‘eye’ on each hindwing.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 32 to 42 mm.
• Diet: Adults derive nourishment mainly from honeydew found on oak leaves, but they may also visit flowers for nectar.
• Reproduction: Mating takes place high up in the tree canopy. The female lays her eggs on small oak twigs in late summer, where they will overwinter before hatching in the spring.
• Lifespan: Adults have a short lifespan of just 2 to 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for the Purple Hairstreak is oak, with the larva feeding on the young leaves and buds of oak trees.

White-letter Hairstreak (Satyrium w-album)

White-letter Hairstreaks are fascinating butterfly species found in several parts of Wales.

As a nature enthusiast, it’s essential to know the primary characteristics of these beautiful creatures.

Here’s a snapshot of the primary features of White-letter Hairstreaks:

• Habitat: These butterflies dwell in woodlands, hedgerows, and gardens, especially where elm trees are abundant.
• Appearance: They showcase a brown color with a unique white, W-shaped pattern on the underside of their wings.
• Size: With a wingspan of 32-42 mm, they are relatively small and delicate.
• Diet: Adults mainly feed on aphid honeydew, while larvae consume elm leaves.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on elm twigs in the spring, from which caterpillars later emerge.
• Lifespan: Adult White-letter Hairstreaks have a short lifespan of around two weeks.
• Host Plants: As mentioned, elm trees are crucial for their survival since their larvae feed on their leaves.

Next time you venture into the Welsh countryside, keep an eye out for these incredibly delicate and unique butterflies.

And now that you know a bit more about the White-letter Hairstreak, you’ll be able to appreciate their presence all the more.

Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris)

The Small Skipper is a charming butterfly that can be found fluttering through the summertime grasslands of Wales.

You’ll love observing these little creatures, as they add a touch of magic to your countryside walks.

Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about the Small Skipper:

• Habitat: Small Skippers thrive in grassy meadows, roadside verges, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: You’ll recognize these beauties by their warm, tawny-orange upper wings and distinctive black-tipped antennae.
• Size: These petite butterflies boast a wingspan of approximately 25-30mm.
• Diet: Small Skippers prefer nectar-rich flowering plants, often feeding on species like thistles, ragworts, and bramble.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs during the summer months, and females lay their eggs individually on the foodplant.
• Lifespan: Adult Small Skippers generally live for 8 to 10 days.
• Host Plants: The larvae primarily feed on grasses, particularly Yorkshire-fog and creeping soft grass.

Next time you venture into the Welsh countryside, be sure to keep an eye out for these enchanting little butterflies! They’re sure to add a bit of sparkle to your day.

Large Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanus)

The Large Skipper is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in various parts of Wales.

This little creature has some unique traits which make it an interesting subject for enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Let’s take a closer look at some key aspects of the Large Skipper:

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer grasslands, woodland clearings, hedgerows, and areas with tall grasses, providing them with ample opportunities to lay their eggs and feed on nectar.
• Appearance: Large Skippers display a unique color pattern of orange and brown, with dark markings on their wings. The males also have a distinctive hook-shaped scent mark; this mark is absent in the females.
• Size: With a wingspan of 25-31mm, Large Skippers are relatively small butterflies but are still larger than the Small Skipper species.
• Diet: They primarily feed on nectar from flowers, favoring species such as thistles, knapweeds, and brambles.
• Reproduction: The female Large Skipper lays her eggs individually on grasses, such as the Cock’s-foot grass.
• Lifespan: These butterflies have a relatively short adult life, usually only living for 1-3 weeks in their fluttering stage.
• Host Plants: Large Skippers rely on several grass species during their caterpillar stage, with the Cock’s-foot grass being their main host for development.

Clouded Yellow (Colias croceus)

The Clouded Yellow butterfly is a captivating species that can be found in various areas of Wales.

Here are some fascinating features of this butterfly:

• Habitat: Clouded Yellow butterflies prefer open spaces such as grasslands, meadows, and coastal areas. They frequently migrate, which allows them to explore a wide range of habitats.
• Appearance: Its wings exhibit a vibrant orange-yellow color, with darker borders and spot patterns on the edges. Both males and females have a similar pattern, but males tend to be slightly brighter.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 5.5 to 6.3 centimeters, making them a medium-sized butterfly among the species found in Wales.
• Diet: As adults, they feed on nectar from various flowers like clover, dandelion, and thistles. The caterpillars primarily dine on the leaves of their host plants.
• Reproduction: Mating occurs in the late summer, and females lay their eggs singly on the host plants. The eggs typically hatch in 8 to 10 days.
• Lifespan: The adult butterflies live for about 2 to 4 weeks, with a total life cycle of around 2 months, depending on their environment.
• Host Plants: Some of their host plants include the species from the pea family like Alfalfa, clover, and bird’s-foot trefoil. Caterpillars feed on these plants to grow and develop into beautiful Clouded Yellow butterflies.

Conclusion

Wales is home to a diverse range of beautiful butterfly species, each with their unique characteristics and habits.

Exploring the countryside and observing these fascinating creatures is an enjoyable way to connect with nature.

If you’ve encountered any of these butterflies in Wales, let us know in the comments below!