Butterflies in Cyprus
The island nation of Cyprus is home to several species of butterflies, including some not seen elsewhere, like the Cyprus Grayling and the Cyprus Meadow Brown. Other notable species include the rare migrant African Ringlet, the beautiful Eastern Festoon, and the stunning Black-veined White.
Butterflies in Cyprus
List of Different Butterfly Species of Cyprus
Brush-Footed (Nymphalidae)
- African Ringlet (Ypthima asterope)
- Cardinal (Argynnis pandora)
- Cyprus Grayling (Hipparchia cypriensis)
- Cyprus Meadow Brown (Maniola cypricola)
- Hermit (Chazara briseis)
- European Nettle-tree Butterfly (Libythea celtis)
- Large Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis polychloros)
- Large Wall Brown (Lasiommata maera)
- Oriental Meadow Brown (Hipparchia syriaca)
- Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)
- Plain Tiger (Danaus chrysippus)
- Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)
- Roxelana’s Grayling (Kirinia roxelana)
- Southern Marbled Skipper (Hyponephele lupinus)
- Southern White Admiral (Limenitis reducta)
- Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria)
- Two-tailed Pasha (Charaxes jasius)
- Wall Brown (Lasiommata megera)
- Pseudochazara anthelea
Gossamer-Winged (Lycaenidae)
- Tawny Silverline (Cigaritis acamas)
- African Babul Blue (Azanus jesous)
- Brown Argus (Aricia agestis)
- Dark Grass Blue (Zizeeria karsandra)
- Eastern Baton Blue (Pseudophilotes vicrama)
- European Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus)
- Grass Jewel (Freyeria trochylus)
- Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus)
- Lang’s Short-tailed Blue (Leptotes pirithous)
- Lesser Fiery Copper (Lycaena thersamon)
- Little Tiger Pierrot (Tarucus balkanica)
- Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus)
- Persian Grass Blue (Luthrodes galba)
- Purple Hairstreak (Favonius quercus)
- Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas)
- Glaucopsyche paphos
Whites and Sulphurs (Pieridae)
- Orange Tip (Anthocharis cardamines)
- Black-veined White (Aporia crataegi)
- Clouded Yellow (Colias croceus)
- Eastern Dappled White (Euchloe ausonia)
- Cleopatra (Gonepteryx cleopatra)
- Cabbage White (Pieris brassicae)
- Small White (Pieris rapae)
- Lesser Bath White (Pontia chloridice)
Swallowtail (Papilionidae)
- Old World Swallowtail (Papilio machaon)
- Eastern Festoon (Zerynthia cerisy)
Skipper (Hesperiidae)
- Mallow Skipper (Carcharodus alceae)
- Pygmy Skipper (Gegenes pumilio)
- Pale Small-branded Swift (Pelopidas thrax)
- Lulworth Skipper (Thymelicus acteon)
Some notable places to see butterflies in Cyprus include the Five Finger Mountains, the region around Mavrokolympos Dam, and the Alevkaya area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What butterfly species are unique to Cyprus?
The primary butterfly species unique to Cyprus are the Cyprus Grayling (Hipparchia cypriensis) and the Cyprus Meadow Brown (Maniola cypricola). These endemic species are not found anywhere else in the world, making them a significant part of the island’s unique biodiversity and a key interest for lepidopterists.
Are there any rare migrant butterflies in Cyprus?
Yes, Cyprus is visited by rare migrant butterflies, with the African Ringlet (Ypthima asterope) being a notable example. This species travels to the island, adding to the diverse range of butterflies that can be observed. Its presence highlights Cyprus’s geographical position as a stopover for various species.
What are the most common butterfly families found in Cyprus?
The most common butterfly families in Cyprus include Brush-Footed (Nymphalidae), Gossamer-Winged (Lycaenidae), and Whites and Sulphurs (Pieridae). These families encompass a wide variety of species, from the Painted Lady and Red Admiral to the Common Blue and the Cabbage White, representing the island’s rich lepidopteran fauna.
How can you identify a Cyprus Grayling butterfly?
A Cyprus Grayling (Hipparchia cypriensis) can be identified by its specific wing patterns and coloration, which distinguish it from other Grayling species. As an endemic Brush-Footed butterfly, observing its unique markings, size, and flight behavior in its natural Cypriot habitat is key to a positive identification.
What is the scientific name for the Two-tailed Pasha butterfly in Cyprus?
The scientific name for the Two-tailed Pasha butterfly found in Cyprus is Charaxes jasius. This large, striking Brush-Footed butterfly is known for the two tail-like extensions on its hindwings. It is one of the more spectacular species that can be observed on the island of Cyprus.
Which ‘White’ butterfly species can be seen in Cyprus?
Several ‘White’ butterfly species from the Pieridae family can be seen in Cyprus. These include the Black-veined White (Aporia crataegi), the Eastern Dappled White (Euchloe ausonia), and the common Cabbage White (Pieris brassicae). These species are widespread and contribute to the island’s diverse butterfly population.
Does Cyprus have any Gossamer-Winged butterflies?
Yes, Cyprus is home to numerous Gossamer-Winged butterflies from the Lycaenidae family. Notable species include the European Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus), the Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas), and the Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus). This family is known for its small size and often iridescent wing colors.
