Swiss Grayling
Common NameSwiss Grayling
Scientific NameHipparchia alcyone
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white, black
HabitatDry, rocky slopes, open woodlands, forest clearings, often in mountainous regions
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, including the Alps, Pyrenees, and Apennines
Host Plantsvarious grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter as caterpillars before pupating on the ground.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive cryptic underside pattern with prominent eyespots when at rest. It prefers dry, sunny, often rocky habitats in mountainous areas.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a highly cryptic underside pattern of mottled browns, greys, and whites, featuring prominent black eyespots on the forewings.
