Wood Nymph
Common NameWood Nymph
Scientific NameCercyonis pegala
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, yellow, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, meadows, fields, prairies
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada to northern Mexico)
Host Plantsvarious grasses, sedges
Flight PeriodJune to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter as partially grown caterpillars. Pupation occurs in a chrysalis on or near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for its dark brown wings with prominent yellow-ringed eyespots on the forewing, especially the two large ones often present. Its flight is often low and erratic, and it frequently lands with wings closed, blending into its surroundings.
Description
The Wood Nymph is a medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings, typically featuring one or two prominent yellow-ringed black eyespots on the forewing. Its underside is mottled, providing excellent camouflage.
