Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Field notes and information

An endemic on Sicily. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the western marbled white M. occitanica. It may be an evolutionary intermediate between the western and the Italian marbled whites, M. occitanica & M. arge as it shows intermediate features of both species and the range is between the two species (Spain and main land Italy).

Identification & Similar species: The underside hindwing markings are fine and pale brown allowing it to be readily separated from other species of Melanargia on the island.

Distribution & Flight: Endemic to Sicily south of Palermo where it is very local. It flies in May and June.

Habitat & Behaviour: Open hills and slopes dominated by grasses. As all Melanargia it is strongly attracted to flowers.

Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Sicily, Italy, May 2018

Sicily, May 2000

Captured from video.