Common Black-eye
Common NameCommon Black-eye
Scientific NameAphantopus hyperantus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)42.5
Primary Colorsbrown, black, cream
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, woodland edges, damp areas
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host PlantsPoa, Festuca, Dactylis, Brachypodium
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on various grasses and overwinter as small caterpillars, pupating in a loose cocoon near the ground. One generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for the numerous black, cream-ringed eyespots on the underside of all wings. The upperside is uniformly dark brown. Often found flying weakly in damp, grassy habitats.
Description
A medium-sized brown butterfly with a series of prominent black eyespots, ringed in cream, on the underside of its wings, particularly visible when at rest with wings closed.
