Dark Rockbrown
Common NameDark Rockbrown
Scientific NameChazara briseis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, orange, black
HabitatDry, rocky grasslands, steppe, open scrubland, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, North Africa, Turkey, Caucasus, Central Asia
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter as caterpillars, pupating on the ground in spring. It is univoltine, having one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include its superb camouflage when resting with closed wings, blending seamlessly with its rocky environment. The upperside forewing's orange band containing a single black eyespot is also distinctive, though often hidden at rest.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a highly cryptic, mottled grey and brown underside that provides excellent camouflage against rocks and dry ground. The upperside of the forewing typically features a prominent orange band with a single black eyespot.
