Madeira, as an island, has a distinct habitat from the one in mainland Europe or Africa and the butterflies that survived to a long distance migration or were transported somehow sometimes colonise the island. When adapting to their new habitat, species usually develop some skills or characteristics that distinguish them from their European or African relatives.

In a total of 20 butterflies’ species recorded to Madeira, 4 are endemic species and 2 endemic subspecies to Madeira Islands.

Endemic (resident) species to Madeira

Madeira Large White (Pieris brassicae wollastoni) - probably extinct

Madeira Brimstone (Gonepteryx madeirensis)

Madeira Grayling (Hipparchia madeirensis)

Madeira Speckled Wood (Pararge xiphia)

Endemic subspecies to Madeira

Madeira Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas phlaeoides)

Indian Red Admiral (Vanessa vulcanica)

Resident species to Madeira Archipelago

Small White (Pieris rapae)

African Migrant (Catopsilla florella)

Clouded Yellow (Colias crocea)

Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus)

European Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

Painted Lady (Cynthia cardui)

Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria)

Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

Rare migrants or Dubious Records to Madeira Archipelago

Pale Clouded Yellow (Colias hyale)

Diadem or False Plain Tiger (Hypolimnas misippus)

Tree Grayling (Hipparchia statillinus)

American Painted Lady (Cynthia virginensis)

Queen of Spain Fritillary (Issoria lathonia)

Plain Tiger or African Queen (Danaus chrysippus)

If you whish, you may print the Madeira Butterflies Checklist down on this webpage.