Coenonympha gardetta

Alpine Heath

euroButterflies

by Matt Rowlings

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2019

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2008

Field notes and information

A widespread and often common species of high altitudes in the Alps.

Identification & Similar species: Can only be confused with forms transitional to the Darwin's heath, C. darwiniana, which flies in southern Switzerland and neighbouring Italy and the southern Alps of France. Refer to that species for more information.

Distribution & Flight: Alps, Massif Central in France and a few high mountains in and around southwest Serbia.

Habitat & Behaviour: High grassy alpine meadows often with rocks, often at considerable altitudes. Sometimes clearings below the tree line.

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Valais, Switzerland, June 2012

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2021

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2020

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2018

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Valais, Switzerland July 2014

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2009

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Valais, Switzerland, June 2019

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Grisons, Switzerland, July 2019

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2018

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Valais, Switzerland, June 2018

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Valais, Switzerland, June 2012

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Valais, Switzerland, June 2019

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Grisons, Switzerland, July 2013

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Valais, Switzeland, June 2013

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Valais, Switzerland, June 2006