Common Evening Brown
Image: Prof. Ideal (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameCommon Evening Brown
Scientific NameMelanitis leda
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsbrown, black, yellow, white
HabitatForest edges, open woodlands, grasslands, agricultural areas, gardens
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Asia, Africa, and Australia
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae), rice, sugarcane, bamboo
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; warmer months in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with a rough texture and two caudal filaments. Pupae are green or brown, suspended head-down, and the species exhibits seasonal polyphenism.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its drab brown underside with prominent eyespots (especially the large hindwing eyespot), its crepuscular flight habit (active at dusk/dawn), and its tendency to rest with wings closed, resembling a dead leaf.
Description
A medium-sized, drab brown butterfly with a hairy body and wings, featuring prominent eyespots on the underside, including a large one on the hindwing and several smaller ones on the forewing.
