Dryad
Common NameDryad
Scientific NameMinois dryas
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsbrown, black, white
HabitatDamp meadows, forest clearings, grassy slopes
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, temperate Asia (Siberia, China, Korea, Japan)
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae family), Brachypodium, Festuca, Carex
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae are green or brownish and overwinter as small caterpillars, feeding on grasses. Pupation occurs on the ground among vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the large, single black eyespot with a white pupil on the forewing, visible on both upper and underside. The cryptic, wavy pattern on the hindwing underside is also a key identifier for this dull brown butterfly.
Description
A medium-sized, dull brown butterfly characterized by a prominent black eyespot with a white pupil on the forewing. The underside of the hindwing features a mottled brown and grey pattern with wavy bands, providing excellent camouflage.
