Maniola jurtina, Meadow Brown

Common Name: Meadow Brown

Maniola jurtina, more commonly known as the Meadow Brown, has a wingspan measuring 4 - 5cm, and dark brown and orange forewings with one eye-spot each on upper and underside.

The female (pictured) has a long patch along the forward edge of the forewing that varies in colour from ochre-yellow through orange to red-brown. The underside of forewing is russet-red, hind wing marbled grey-brown. Present throughout the UK, being found in meadows and pastures, along field banks, grassy slopes and woodland edges.

Common everywhere. Flight period mid-May to October, but having only one brood. Flies during both sunny and overcast weather; visits flowers both to feed on nectar and to rest. Female visits several potential breeding sites before laying her eggs. The eggs are laid singly on grass stems or dry material close to the ground.

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