
Burgos, Spain, July 2011

Valais, Switzerland, September 2006
Field notes and information
A widespread species, often common in the right habitats.
Identification & Similar species: This is a "model" for the a number of Hipparchia species. The group is actively speciating and taxonomy is complex evolving at the moment across Europe. As there is generally little overlap between the similar species, identification best started with knowledge of which species are presented in the given location.
Distribution & Flight: Extends from Spain and Italy and the northern Balkans to Scandinavia and the UK. Seemingly coastal in northern countries.
Habitat & Behaviour: Dry heathland or grassy places. As with all Hipparchia it doesn't open its wings when at rest, prefering to either angle its wings towards the sun to heat up or into the sun to minimise heating.

Valais, Switzerland, June 2019

Valais, Switzerland, July 2021

Valais, Switzerland, July 2021


Sierra Nevada, Spain, July 2013

Valais, Switzerland, June 2015

Burgos, Spain, July 2011

Almeria, Spain, July 2013

Valais, Switzerland, September 2007


Montes Universales, Spain, July 2011

Andalucia, Spain, May 2008

Alpes de Haute Provence, France, July 2009


Var, France, July 2010

Valais, Switzerland, September 2007

Dorset, UK, July 2000