Common Wood-Nymph
Common NameCommon Wood-Nymph
Scientific NameCercyonis pegala
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, blue
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open woodlands, forest edges, prairies
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada, most of the United States)
Host Plantsvarious grasses, sedges
Flight PeriodLate June to early October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with white stripes, feed on grasses, and overwinter as partially grown caterpillars. Pupation occurs in a chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall dull brown coloration and the two large, blue-centered black eyespots on the forewing, especially visible on the underside. Its flight is often described as floppy or bouncy.
Description
A medium-sized, dull brown butterfly with two prominent, black, blue-centered eyespots on the forewing, and a cryptic underside that blends with dry vegetation.
