Southern Gatekeeper
Common NameSouthern Gatekeeper
Scientific NamePyronia cecilia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, orange, black
HabitatDry grasslands, scrubland, rocky slopes, open woodlands, coastal areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodJune to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae are green, overwinter, and feed on grasses before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the two white pupils within the forewing eyespot and the more variegated, mottled underside of the hindwings compared to similar species.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with mottled brown and grey wings, featuring a prominent black eyespot with two white pupils on the forewing, surrounded by an orange-brown patch.
