Pseudochazara graeca on euroButterflies by Matt Rowlings

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Pseudochazara graeca

Grecian Grayling

euroButterflies

by Matt Rowlings

S Greece, July 2007

NW Greece, August 2008

Ssp. coutsisi is a sandy brown.

Field notes and information

Local in the southern Balkans, from Greece and FYROM.

Identification & Similar species: The fairly uniform grey underside hindwing, with only a weakly marked post discal line helps separate this species within its range. The upperside (only visible in glimpses as it flies) has a distinct orange appearance which contrasts with the dark brown ground colour. The grey matches the rocks of the habitat very closely.

Distribution & Flight: Greece: main mountains of central and south greece. FYROM: southwest only. Late July and August.

Habitat & Behaviour: Grassy places on mountain tops above or at the tree line. Settles frequently on rocks where the underside colouration blends in remarkably well. Feed extensively on Centaureae and Eryngo.

Variation: The subspecies coutsisi is found in the north Pindos mountains. The underside is orange-brown which matches the rocks of this particular habitat very well.