Grayling (Hipparchia semele)

Family: Nymphalidae Checklist: 59.013

 
Description
Wing span: 51-62 mm. The Grayling is a master of disguise. Although it is fairly conspicuous when in flight, it can mysteriously disappear as soon as it lands, being perfectly camouflaged against a background of bare earth and stones. It always rests with its wings closed. The sexes are similar. This butterfly can be found throughout the British Isles. It is primarily a coastal species, although colonies also occur inland. Its preferred habitat is sheltered, sunny and dry sites where vegetation is sparse. Typical sites include heathland, sand dunes, coastal grassland and disused quarries.
 
Images (click to enlarge)
Grayling ♂ underside © David Hastings
Grayling ♀ underside © David Hastings
Male underside Female underside
 
Life Cycle
There is one generation per year, with adults generally begining to emerge at the start of July, peaking at the end of the month. The larva is the overwintering stage.
 
Larval Foodplants
The primary larval food plants are Bristle Bent (Agrostis curtisii), Early Hair-grass (Aira praecox), Red Fescue (Fetusca rubra) and Sheep's-fescue (Fetusca ovina).
 
Nectar Sources
Adults feed primarily on Bird's-foot Trefoil, Bramble, Heather, Marjoram, Red Clover, Teasel and Thistles.
 
UK Conservation Status
Endangered
 
Earliest UTB first sighting (since 2004) : 24th June
Mean UTB first sighting (since 2004) : 14th July
 
Species Champion
Des Sussex
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Distribution and Sites
 

Key
1 sighting 2-9 max seen 10+ max seen
This species is a habitat specialist. It can be found at these sites:
Berkshire
Decoy Heath
Greenham Common
Holden's Firs
Wildmoor Heath

 
Related Species
All Species