Butterfly Habitat > Arctic Alpine

Arctic alpine habitat is similar to mountain hilltops; but generally runs at roughly 10,500 feet in elevation or higher. This habitat includes a unique blend of mountain meadows, willow bogs, pristine crystal clear lakes, spruce tree forests and even glaciated talus boulder formations. Just as habitats for this physiogeographic region are splendorous and unique, so is the mix of butterflies found here. In fact, finding butterflies in the arctic/alpine region can be equally rewarding as it is challenging--sometimes in the extreme. Some of the challenges facing those wishing to find arctic alpine butterflies include consistent afternoon thunderstorms, long hikes, unceasing wind, dangerous boulder and talus formations, thin air, and semi-unpredictable butterfly flight periods.