Book Review - Butterflies of Britain and Western Europe and their Caterpillars: An Identification Guide - Princeton University Press (WILDGuides)

 

     Like many modern field guides this publication goes far beyond the realm of traditional field guides, which were as the name implies, intended simply to aid in the identification of a species by comparing it with a picture.

     This weighty tome - weighty in terms of volume and content - surpasses the simple act of matching a live butterfly or a photograph against a picture in the book. In fact, there are cautionary notes that by simply doing this, incorrect identification may result with certain species, especially those where only one side is visible. A series of keys contained in blocks enables a progressive ID by combining necessary characters. Once used a couple of times the value of this device becomes readily apparent.

     In addition to the adult form of the insect, both eggs and caterpillars are covered in detail, with appropriate keys.  I find it amazing that illustrations of the genitalia, so critical to clinching the ID of some species, are provided. If I were to name the most significant development in a field guide to butterflies, this would be it. There is even a photograph illustrating how the genitalia can be examined in the field with a hand lens with a magnification of ten or higher, without harming the insect which is released immediately afterwards.

     The monographs of all the species found within Britain and Western Europe, as well as the Canary Islands, the Azores, Madeira, and Cyprus, are exceptional.

     The main elements of the biology of the species is provided, with details as to ecology and taxonomy. A substantive morphological description rounds out the picture, and a range map highlights the distribution.

     A unique (and dare I say entertaining?) series of pictographs enable a quick understanding of everything you need to know about the butterfly and its larvae - abundance, diet, position in the ecosystem, host plants, association with other organisms, etc. It's a simple system, learned in a matter of minutes, yet very effective.

     It is obvious that a lot of care has gone into this guide. It is extremely user-friendly, yet complete, and both scientifically and aesthetically pleasing.

     I was in Europe last year and wish I had had this guide with me. There's always the next time!

Butterflies of Britain and Western Europe  and their Caterpillars - An Identification Guide - Princeton University Press

Jean-Pierre Moussus

Paperback - US$39.95 - ISBN: 9780691271798

640 pages - 5.875 x 8.25 inches (14.69 x 20.625 cm)

Publication date: 17 February, 2026