Species Insects & ArthropodsCommon Ringlet

Common Ringlet

Coenonympha tullia

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Common Ringlet (Coenonympha tullia)

The Common Ringlet is a small, understated butterfly with tawny-gray wings and one or more small eyespots on the undersides, which it closes over itself when resting in grass to blend in. It is a grass-specialist with a weak, bobbing flight close to the ground. This is one of the most widely distributed satyrids in North America, with many recognized subspecies.

Habitat
Grassy meadows, prairies, and open grassy woodlands
Diet
Larvae: grasses. Adults: nectar from low-growing flowers
How common
Common

Best time to see a Common Ringlet

The best time to see a Common Ringlet is April–June, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 20,920 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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