Invertebrates
Meadow Brown
Maniola jurtina · also called meadow brown butterfly
Over a hay meadow on a grey July afternoon, meadow browns are the only butterflies in the air, flitting low over the grass with their single eyespots.
Overview
The meadow brown, Maniola jurtina, is a Least Concern butterfly of grassland across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Though modestly coloured, it is one of the most common and widespread butterflies in its range and a staple of summer meadows.
An unfussy meadow butterfly
The meadow brown’s willingness to fly in poor weather and use a wide range of grasslands has made it one of the most successful European butterflies.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and common.
Meadow Brown: common questions
How can you tell male and female meadow browns apart?
Females have larger orange patches on the forewings, while males are plainer brown.
Does the meadow brown fly in dull weather?
Yes, it flies even on cloudy days, when many other butterflies stay settled.
What do meadow brown caterpillars eat?
They feed on fine grasses, and spend the winter feeding slowly.
Where is the meadow brown found?
It lives in grassland, meadows, and road verges across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia.