Armenia - Butterflies of the Caucasus

Summary

Nestled in the heart of the southern Caucasus, Armenia is one of the Western Palearctic's most exciting yet under-appreciated destinations for butterfly enthusiasts. Despite covering an area little larger than Wales, this fascinating country supports an impressive diversity of habitats, from arid semi-desert and juniper-clad hillsides to flower-rich alpine meadows and ancient mountain forests. The result is a remarkably rich butterfly fauna, with more than 230 species recorded, including a wealth of regional specialities found nowhere else in Eurasia.

This carefully timed June tour explores Armenia at the height of the butterfly season, when warm sunshine and an abundance of wildflowers create ideal conditions for observation. Travelling through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes, we will search for such sought-after species as Persian Skipper, Dawn Clouded Yellow, Jerusalem, Caucasian Lesser Spotted Fritillary, Nakhchivan Hairstreak, Clouded Apollo and Southern Swallowtail. One of the tour's most memorable spectacles can be the extraordinary gatherings of mud-puddling butterflies, when hundreds or even thousands of blues, whites and skippers congregate along streams and damp ground.

Our journey takes us from the celebrated Khosrov Forest State Nature Reserve and the dramatic red cliffs of Noravank Canyon to the flower-filled valleys of Yeghegis, the high passes above Lake Sevan and the volcanic slopes of Mount Ara. Along the way we will encounter a fascinating blend of European, Middle Eastern and Central Asian species, reflecting Armenia's unique geographical position at the crossroads of three continents. With the possibility of recording well over 80 butterfly species during the week, every day promises fresh discoveries and excellent photographic opportunities.

While butterflies are our principal focus, Armenia's wildlife extends far beyond its exceptional insect life. Dragonflies, day-flying moths and a rich birdlife add further interest, with species such as Lammergeier, White-throated Robin, Upcher's Warbler and European Roller all possible. Combined with Armenia's ancient monasteries, excellent cuisine, welcoming people and magnificent mountain scenery, this tour offers a rewarding and unforgettable exploration of one of the Caucasus' most captivating natural history destinations.

• Armenia supports more than 230 species of butterfly
• Search semi-desert habitats for Persian Skipper, Christoph's Clouded Yellow and Southern Swallowtail
• Witness spectacular gatherings of 'mud-puddling' butterflies, with thousands of blues and whites often concentrated along streams and watercourses
• Look for regional specialities including Nakhchivan, Romanoff's and Hyrcanian Hairstreaks
• Clouded Apollo, Dalmatian Ringlet and Zarathustra Blue in the flower-rich Yeghegis Valley
• Search mountain habitats for the subspecies of Alcon Blue, Large Blue and Chelmos Blue
• Rich birdlife including Lammergeier, White-throated Robin, European Roller and Upcher's Warbler
• Explore spectacular landscapes from Khosrov Forest and Noravank Canyon to Lake Sevan and Mount Ara