Huesca, Spain, July 2017

Var, France, July 2010

Field notes and information

Often very common where found, they are rare in the northern parts of their range, and widespread in hot dry places in the south.

Identification & Similar species: It has a distinctive white band on the underside hindwing and the upper surfaces have a characteristic orange brown band that forms a V easily seen in flight.

Distribution & Flight: This species has a patchy distribution in France and is widespread in Spain and from central Austria to eastern Europe down to Greece. There is an apparent gap between eastern and western populations running through Italy, Switzerland and Germany.

Habitat & Behaviour: Hot dry grassland, strongly attracted to flowers where it feeds avidly.

Provence, France, August 2003

Frequent flicking of wings allows views of upperside.

Montes Universales, Spain, August 2003

Catalonia, Spain, August 2003

Var, France, July 2010

Montes Universales, Spain, July 2011

Var, France, July 2010

Parnassos, Greece, August 2007

Var, France, July 2010