Common Ringlet
Common NameCommon Ringlet
Scientific NameAphantopus hyperantus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorspale brown, orange-brown, black
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, woodland clearings, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host Plantsvarious grasses, Poa, Festuca, Brachypodium, Dactylis
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on various grasses and overwinter before pupating in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark brown upperside (not visible in this image) and the characteristic series of black, white-ringed eyespots on the underside of both forewings and hindwings, though the number can vary. Its flight is typically weak and close to the ground.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with a furry, pale brown body. The visible underside of the forewing features an orange-brown patch with a single small black eyespot, while the hindwing is a uniform pale grey-brown.
