Eriphyle ringlet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eriphyle ringlet |
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| The Eriphyle ringlet butterfly | |
| Scientific classification |
The Eriphyle ringlet (Erebia eriphyle) is a type of butterfly that lives high up in the Alps mountains. It belongs to a group of butterflies called the Satyrinae subfamily, which is part of the larger Nymphalidae family. This butterfly was first described by Christian Friedrich Freyer in 1836.
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What Does the Eriphyle Ringlet Look Like?
The Eriphyle ringlet butterfly looks a lot like another butterfly called the Melampus ringlet. However, there are some clear differences.
Forewings
The front wings (forewings) of the Eriphyle ringlet have a reddish-brown band. This band is usually broken into several long, rounded spots by the veins of the wing. There are typically five of these spots, but sometimes only three or four. The two spots closest to the edge of the wing often have small black dots inside them.
Hindwings
On the back wings (hindwings), you can usually see three or four reddish-brown or brownish spots. One of these spots, located near the middle vein, is usually larger and longer than the others. This larger spot is a key way to tell the Eriphyle ringlet apart from the Melampus ringlet. Unlike the Melampus ringlet, the spots on the Eriphyle ringlet's hindwings do not have black centers.
Size and Color
The Eriphyle ringlet is generally larger than the Melampus ringlet. The underside of its forewings is lighter than the top, often a yellowish-orange color. The spots on the underside of the hindwings are also the same color and stand out more clearly than on the top.
Males and Females
Female Eriphyle ringlets usually have a paler overall color. The underside of their wings is more yellowish-brown, and their bands and spots are not as clear as those on the males. The outer edge of the male's wings is slightly paler than the rest, while in females, it is brownish-grey.
Where Does the Eriphyle Ringlet Live?
This butterfly is a true mountain dweller. It lives in the Alps mountain range across Europe. The Eriphyle ringlet prefers areas with limestone rocks. You can find these butterflies flying during July and August. They live at high altitudes, from about 900 meters (around 2,950 feet) up to 2,200 meters (about 7,200 feet) above sea level.
