Erebia melampus

Lesser Mountain Ringlet

euroButterflies

by Matt Rowlings

copyright © 2003-2024

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2012

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Piedmont, Italy, July 2012

Field notes and information

A very common and widespread species found only in the Alps.

Identification & Similar species: The fairly regularly sized orange spots on all wings contain tiny black spots. The mountain ringlet E. epiphron lacks the orange spots on the underside hindwing, although spots, if present, may be encircled by very narrow reddish rings. Extremely similar to the rare and local Sudeten ringlet, E. sudetica. Refer to that species for identification hints.

Distribution & Flight: Confined to the Alps, flying in July and August.

Habitat & Behaviour: Grassy places, in woodland or open areas from moderate to alpine levels.

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2011

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2020

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2019

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2019

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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2019

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2019

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2019

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2017

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2017

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Valais, Switzerland, July 2017

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Valais, Switzerland, August 2013