RSPB Butterflies of the British Isles includes the 57 resident and two common migratory butterfly species of mainland Britain, Ireland and the Isle of Man, as well as ten rarer non-resident visitors. From familiar, widespread species like the Red Admiral and Painted Lady to rare, regional and unmistakable species like the Swallowtail and Purple Emperor, this new photo guide presents a comprehensive set of photos, descriptions and distribution maps to help you identify any butterfly you may encounter in any habitat across the British Isles, throughout the flight season.With concise identification text and expert photography, this is suitable for beginner and experienced butterfly enthusiasts alike. Species accounts describe each species’ appearance at their various life stages, their behaviour, food plants and when to see them. The guide also contains up-to-date distribution maps showing the species’ range within the British Isles. To illuminate key identification points, author and photographer Marianne Taylor has carefully chosen 400 colour photographs, including male and female adults of sexually dimorphic species, different morphs and the most frequently encountered aberrant forms. Where helpful, photographs of eggs, caterpillars and pupae are also included. An introductory section gives general guidance on butterfly-watching to help you get the most out of your time in the field.