Ringlet
Common NameRinglet
Scientific NameAphantopus hyperantus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, pale yellow
HabitatDamp grasslands, woodland clearings, hedgerows, meadows
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host PlantsPoa, Festuca, Brachypodium, Dactylis
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. The larva overwinters as a small caterpillar, feeding on grasses in spring before pupating near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include its uniform dark brown coloration and the presence of small, often subtle, black eyespots, particularly visible on the underside. Its low, bouncing flight close to the ground is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized, uniformly dark brown butterfly with a rather subdued appearance. Its wings typically feature small, dark eyespots, which are often more prominent and ringed with pale yellow on the underside.
