Speckled Wood
Common NameSpeckled Wood
Scientific NamePararge aegeria
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, cream, yellow, black
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, hedgerows, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia Minor
Host PlantsDactylis glomerata (Cock's-foot), Brachypodium sylvaticum (False Brome), Holcus lanatus (Yorkshire Fog)
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae are green with a darker dorsal line. Pupae are either green or brown, suspended head-down from vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive dark brown and pale-spotted pattern. Often seen perching in sunlit patches within woodlands, frequently engaging in territorial disputes.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings adorned with numerous pale yellow or cream spots and small, black, white-pupilled eyespots, particularly prominent on the forewings.
