This butterfly is well named, as it frequently basks on tree trunks where it is very well camouflaged. Like the common Grayling it never rests with its wings open. I found several in an  area of oak woodland in the hills of the Algarve, basking on the trunks of Cork Oak, as well as the mountains of Andalusia, also around oak trees.

Distribution: Scattered throughout southern and central Europe. Much more abundant in the south of its range in the Mediterranean region.

Flight Period: Late June -September in 1 brood.

Habitat: Light woodland, scrub, maquis with oak or pine woodland at low to moderate altitudes.

Foodplants: Various grasses (Poacaea)

Nectar sources: Not often seen feeding on flowers, but Eryngium and thymes (Thymus) are visited occasionally.

<Prev
Next>