Schwartz-Tzachor, R., Department of Evolutionary and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science and Science Education, University of Haifa, Haifa 31905, Israel, Ramat Hanadiv Nature Park, P.O. Box 325, Zichron Yaacov 30900, Israel
Izhaki, I., Department of Evolutionary and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Science and Science Education, University of Haifa, Haifa 31905, Israel
Perevolotsky, A., Department of Natural Resources, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50-250, Israel

Although many studies indicate a relation between global warming and variation in spatial and temporal butterfly distribution, detailed studies are lacking on the importance of local climatic factors on butterfly community composition. We studied the relation between climatic factors and seasonality on butterfly community composition in a Mediterranean climate-type region. The butterfly diversity measures were mainly affected by maximum daily radiation, minimum daily relative humidity, and temperature variables. We suggest extending butterfly monitoring at Long Term Ecological Research stations in Israel, which will allow separating the effect of climatic changes and/or change in local factors on butterfly community composition.