Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Field notes and information
A widespread and common species over much of its range. Flies rather later than most Erebia.
Identification & Similar species: The white/ cream banding on the underside hindwing is distinctive. Wing fringes are dull grey, in the female they are weakly chequered. The scent brand in the male is distinct. It emerges later in the year than most butterflies so it appears fresh when most others are worn.
Distribution & Flight: Hills and mountains of central and eastern France to Belgium and eastwards to Russia and the northern Balkans. Outlying populations in Scotland and two sites in northern England. Flies from the end of July.
Habitat & Behaviour: Grassy places and meadows usually associated with woodland or scrub. Can be found at very low levels for this genus - I've found it at sea level in northwest England and 500m in Switzerland. I generally find it around 1000 to 1500m. Larvae feed on various grasses.
Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Valais, Switzerland, July 2022
Bern, Switzerland, August 2020
Valais, Switzerland, August 2020
Bern, Switzerland, August 2020
Vaud, 600m, Switzerland, August 2006
Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Isère, France July 2008
Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Valais, Switzerland, August 2019
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2006
Male, scent brand distinct.
Valais, Switzerland August 2016
Valais, Switzerland, August 2013
Trombidium breei parasitic mite, common on Satyrid butterflies in summer grasslands.
Valais, Switzerland, July 2006