Butterfly species
Butterfly species of Russia and the world: day-flying and nocturnal, large and rare. Profiles of 50+ species with photos, Latin names, and range data.
The Butterfly species section covers groups of day-flying Lepidoptera most often encountered in nature: day-flying and nocturnal, small and large, common and rare. Each group page describes typical representatives, distinguishing features, and observation tips. Individual species pages are in the species catalog.
How to find a species
If you already know the name, use search. If you saw a butterfly but do not know what it is, start with the identification guide — it helps narrow down the species by colour, wing shape, or where you saw it. For in-depth study of families, see families.
Day-flying butterflies
Day-flying butterflies are the most conspicuous Lepidoptera: they fly in sunlight, have club-shaped antennae, and often bright colouration.
How to identify a butterfly species
Step-by-step guide to identifying a butterfly: size, colour, wing shape, antennae, place and time of encounter. Methods without capture and using photographs.
Large butterflies
Large butterflies impress with wingspan: from the familiar swallowtail in Russia to giant birdwings with wings wider than 25 centimetres.