A large southern European butterfly which is similar to the other Meadow Brown (Hyponephele) species, but has a uniform underside and heavily scalloped hindwings. In my experience it is not very numerous where found. The form which I found in Croatia, H. l. rhamnusia, is slightly larger and paler than the nominate form found in the rest of its range.
Distribution: Scattered throughout southern Europe; central Portugal, most of Spain, southern France, parts of peninsular Italy, parts of Hungary, the Dalmatian coast, southern Balkans and Greece.
Flight Period: Mid May-mid August in 1 brood. Some individuals aestivate in hot conditions during the summer.
Habitat: Hot dry scrub, woodland edges, dry field margins up to 2000m.
Foodplants: Grasses (Poaceae).
Nectar Sources: Eryngium, thymes (Thymus), carline thistles (Carlina), thistles (Cirsium), sages (Salvia), mints (Mentha).