Mnestra's Ringlet
Common NameMnestra's Ringlet
Scientific NameErebia mnestra
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatAlpine meadows, rocky slopes, high altitudes
Geographic RangeAlps (France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria)
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on various grasses and typically overwinter as larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct orange band on the forewing against a dark brown background, and the plain dark brown hindwings, typically found in high alpine environments.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings, characterized by a prominent orange band on the forewing. The hindwings are uniformly dark brown on the visible upper surface.
