Species profile
About this species
The Mountain Argus is a medium-sized brown butterfly belonging to the family Nymphalidae, found across upland & moorland areas of Europe & Asia. It displays distinctive orange-red bands on its wings, each containing small black eyespots with white pupils, which serve as a defence against predators. The species is particularly associated with grassland habitats at higher altitudes, where its caterpillars feed on various grass species.
Upland grasslands, moorlands & hillside meadows, typically above 300 metres, with a preference for areas containing rough grasses & sheltered sunny slopes across northern & central Europe
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Mountain Argus 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 July to August is the peak flight period, with warm sunny mornings between 9am & 12pm being ideal when adults are actively basking & feeding on flowers
Approach slowly & from downwind as this butterfly is easily disturbed, using a macro lens to capture the intricate eyespot detail on the wings. Photograph on warm, sunny mornings when the butterfly is basking with wings open, allowing clear views of the upper wing markings. Use a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject against a softly blurred background of moorland vegetation, ensuring the eyespots remain sharply focussed.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Mountain Argus
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.