Melissa Arctic
Common NameMelissa Arctic
Scientific NameOeneis melissa
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white, black
HabitatArctic tundra, rocky slopes, high alpine areas
Geographic RangeArctic North America (Alaska, Canada, Greenland)
Host PlantsCarex spp., Poa spp., Festuca spp.
Flight PeriodLate June to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on sedges and grasses, typically taking two or three years to complete development in cold arctic environments, overwintering as larvae.
Identification TipsKey features include the highly cryptic, mottled brown and grey underside with a frosted appearance, blending seamlessly with rocks and lichen. Found exclusively in high arctic/alpine tundra habitats.
Description
A medium-sized, cryptically colored butterfly with mottled brown and grey undersides, often appearing 'frosted' or lichen-like, perfectly camouflaged against rocky tundra.
