Which butterflies are characteristic of Morocco?

Morocco is a transition zone between Europe and Africa. European species (brimstone, painted lady, red admiral), Mediterranean endemics, and African species of the Saharan zone occur here. Mountain whites of the genus *Euchloe* and blues of the genus *Agrodiaetus* are characteristic.

Are there rare mountain butterflies in Morocco?

The Atlas Mountains (up to 4,167 m) are home to several species found only in North Africa: the mountain fritillary *Berberia lambessanus* and several blues. High-mountain meadows are excellent for observation in June–July.

When is the best time to visit Morocco for butterflies?

Spring (April–May) is the peak of diversity in mountains and on the plains. June–July are rich in species on high Atlas meadows. In autumn (September–October), migrating species are active: painted lady, red admiral.

Butterfly Atlas

Butterflies of Morocco

Morocco is the gateway to Africa for European entomologists. About 200 day-flying species: Atlas mountain species, Mediterranean migrants, and Saharan specialists.

Butterflies of Morocco: overview

Morocco lies in northwest Africa and occupies a unique transitional position between Europe, the Mediterranean, and Africa south of the Sahara. About 200 species of day-flying butterflies are recorded in the country — fewer than in tropical regions, but with a high proportion of restricted-range species.

Atlas Mountains

The Atlas mountain system extends from northeast to southwest Morocco. The High Atlas reaches 4,167 m (Jebel Toubkal). Specialized mountain species fly on high meadows and rocky slopes:

Whites of the genus Euchloe — several species found only in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula
Mountain blues of the genus Agrodiaetus with very limited ranges
High-mountain sulphurs of the genus Colias

Mediterranean zone

Northern Morocco with a Mediterranean climate is rich in species shared with Spain and Portugal: painted lady, red admiral, brimstone, and most European nymphalids. Some of these species use Morocco as a wintering area.

Transition to the Sahara

The southern foothills of the Atlas are a transition zone to the Sahara. Desert-adapted species occur here: sulphurs and blues with remarkably low moisture needs, able to survive long droughts in diapause.

Butterflies of Morocco

Butterflies of Morocco: overview

Atlas Mountains

Mediterranean zone

Transition to the Sahara

See also

African countries

Other regions

Frequently asked questions