Ringlet

Special features: The male ringlet butterfly can be almost black when young, but fade to brown with age. The eye spots, or rings, which give this butterfly its name are very variable in size and shape.

Latin name: Aphantopus hyperantus

Size: Wingspan approximately 45mm.

Distribution: Found throughout Northern Ireland, Wales and southern England. Less common in Scotland.

Months seen: Late June to August.

Habitat: Woodland rides and meadows.

Food: Nectar. The ringlet caterpillars feed on various grasses.