Eyed Brown (Satyrodes eurydice)

Description: This is a medium sized brown butterfly with submarginal rows of bold spots. The spots on the upperside are dark brown to black with pale haloes. The spots on the underside are white centered with concentric rings of black, yellowish-brown and brown. It is similar in general appearance to the Northern Pearly-Eye. That species is larger and more robust with a more scalloped hindwing and is usually found in a different habitat. The large spot on the upper border of the hindwing is much more prominent. Wingspan: 38 to 48 mm.

Maritime Distribution: Widespread throughout the Maritimes. For Atlas results click here.

Provincial Ranks: NB: S5. NS: S5. PEI: S5.

Flight Period: Mid June to early August.

Host Plant: A variety of sedges, including Carex lacustris and C. rostrata.

Notes: This is a common species of open marshes, grassy bog margins, wet fields and wet roadsides. It alights frequently on grasses but doesn’t visit flowers.