Species profile
About this species
The Clouded Apollo is a medium-sized butterfly belonging to the family Papilionidae, found across parts of central & northern Europe into Asia. It has distinctive semi-translucent white wings with grey-black markings & lacks the red spots seen on its close relative the Apollo. The species is considered vulnerable in many regions due to habitat loss & the decline of its larval foodplant, Corydalis species.
Woodland clearings, flower-rich meadows & hillside slopes where Corydalis foodplants grow, typically at low to moderate elevations in central & northern Europe
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Clouded Apollo with us in Bulgaria.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer, typically May to June, during warm sunny mornings between 9am & midday
Photograph during sunny spells when adults are actively nectaring on flowers such as bistort or thistle, as overcast conditions make them sluggish & easier to approach. Use a macro or short telephoto lens in the 90-180mm range to capture wing detail without disturbing the butterfly. Early morning is ideal as newly warmed individuals are less likely to take flight, allowing time to compose & focus carefully on wing patterns.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Clouded Apollo
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.