The Butterflies and Moths of Teneriffe

When a young naturalist left England for a winter of sunshine on Tenerife, she found herself drawn into the island’s fluttering inhabitants. The book offers a detailed account of every butterfly known from the island at the time, describing twenty‑nine species and even adding four newcomers to science, each accompanied by the author’s own meticulous drawings. Readers also get a brief overview of the island’s moths, with highlights from a private collection that includes about seventy varieties.

Beyond the species lists, the work doubles as a hands‑on field guide: it supplies practical tips on nets, breeding cages, and the careful preparation of specimens for study or display. The author’s vivid observations turn ordinary walks along Tenerife’s high road into expeditions through hidden valleys and coastal scrub, showing how entomology can become a healthy, rewarding pastime. Whether you are a beginner eager to learn the basics or a seasoned collector seeking a historic perspective, the book blends scientific rigor with the simple pleasure of watching delicate wings in the sun.