Butterflies of Samara Oblast (Volga region)

Volga region: forest-steppe zone

Samara Oblast lies in the forest-steppe zone of the Volga. The main natural landmark is the Zhiguli Mountains — a unique forested massif on the Volga with relict flora and fauna. More than 100 day-flying butterfly species inhabit the oblast’s diverse biotopes.

Zhiguli Mountains

The Zhiguli are the heart of entomological diversity in Samara Oblast. South-facing limestone slopes with mixed-grass flora create conditions close to steppe:

• On slopes and forest edges fly fritillaries of several species
• On limestone outcrops with thyme — blues, including rare Phengaris
• In forest glades — mnemosyne (Parnassius mnemosyne) in May–June

Zhiguli Nature Reserve

The reserve and Samarskaya Luka National Park concentrate the greatest species richness. Old meadows and steppe patches support rare species. The day-flying butterfly list exceeds 80 species.

Volga floodplain meadows

Floodplain meadows of the Volga are the richest biotope for meadow species. Blues, checkerspots, and fritillaries abound in June–July. On floodplain fields — mass nymphalid species.

Steppe areas

In the east of the oblast steppe patches remain with characteristic species: several sulphurs, steppe blues, and satyrs.

Rare species

• Mnemosyne (Parnassius mnemosyne) — Zhiguli, May–June
• Alcon blue (Phengaris arion) — limestone slopes with thyme
• Maturin’s fritillary (Euphydryas maturna) — wet alder woods

Seasonal calendar

See also: nymphalids and key by place of encounter.