Great Arctic
Common NameGreat Arctic
Scientific NameOeneis bore
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsorange, brown, grey, black
HabitatArctic tundra, rocky slopes, open boreal forests
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Arctic regions, including Alaska, Canada, and northern Eurasia
Host Plantsvarious grasses, sedges (e.g., Carex, Poa, Festuca)
Flight PeriodLate June to August (often biennial)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on grasses and sedges, typically taking two years to complete development in cold northern climates. They overwinter as larvae.
Identification TipsKey features include the highly cryptic, mottled grey-brown underside, the prominent single black eyespot on the forewing upperside, and its preference for arctic and alpine environments.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a cryptic, mottled grey-brown underside that provides excellent camouflage, and an orange-brown upperside featuring a distinct black eyespot with a white pupil on the forewing.
