Middle Atlas, Morocco, June 2005

Middle Atlas, Morocco, June 2005

Field notes and information

In June 2005, we were surprised how uncommon this butterfly was. It is supposedly found across the mountains of Morocco but we found it only very locally in the Middle Atlas. It was in good condition so we were obviously at the right time of year at the end of June, at least in this area.

It is often considered a subspecies of the European dusky heath C. dorus. Wing markings are quite different.

Identification & Similar species: There are no similar species in north Africa.

Distribution & Flight: The Atlas mountains of Morocco and northwest Algeria.

Habitat & Behaviour: It flies amongst sparse scrub with patches of dry grass, often in dry gullies.

Middle Atlas, Morocco, June 2005

Middle Atlas, Morocco, June 2005

Middle Atlas, Morocco, June 2005

Middle Atlas, Morocco, June 2005