Alberta Arctic
Common NameAlberta Arctic
Scientific NameOeneis alberta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)44
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, white, grey
HabitatDry grasslands, prairies, sagebrush steppe, open pine forests, rocky areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alberta and Saskatchewan south through the Rocky Mountains to Colorado and Utah, and west to parts of British Columbia and Washington.
Host PlantsFestuca, Poa, various grasses
Flight PeriodLate May to early August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on grasses and typically take two years to complete development, overwintering twice as larvae. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled, bark-like underside pattern. Often found in dry, open habitats. Lacks prominent eyespots on the underside.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its highly cryptic undersides, mottled with dark brown, black, and white/grey, providing excellent camouflage against rocks and dry vegetation.
