Meadow Brown
Common NameMeadow Brown
Scientific NameManiola jurtina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsbrown
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open woodlands, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host PlantsPoa, Festuca, Dactylis, Agrostis
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae are green and feed on various grasses, pupating low down in the vegetation.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dull brown wings, often with a single small eyespot on the forewing (sometimes with a white pupil). Its low, 'bouncing' flight over grassy habitats is also a key indicator.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with predominantly brown wings. The underside of the hindwing, as shown, is a uniform dull brown, providing camouflage, though the species typically features a small eyespot on the forewing.
