This species of grayling is quite widespread in Europe but can be local. It often basks on rock faces and boulders which perhaps gives it its name. It is very similar to the Woodland Grayling but its underside is usually more indented along the pale band. I saw it at several locations in the Pyrenees although it was never abundant and usually flew out of sight before I could get close enough for a good photo.

Distribution: Most of Portugal, C and E Spain, C and S France, W Italy, Sicilly, SW Switzerland, W Germany into Poland, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic and Estonia. Also S Norway.

Flight Period: Late June-August in 1 brood.

Habitat: Rocky woodland clearings and edges, rocky scrub up to 1800m, but prefers lower altitudes.

Foodplants: Grasses, such as False Brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) and Sheep’s Fescue (Festuca ovina).

Nectar Sources: Rarely takes nectar from flowers; occasionally thistles (Cirsium) or Eryngium.

<Prev
Next>