The Northern Pearly-eye is a medium-sized woodland satyr with rows of pearly-ringed eyespots on both wing surfaces and a distinctive purplish sheen in fresh specimens. Unlike most butterflies, it is crepuscular and sometimes attracted to lights at dusk. It seldom nectars, preferring tree sap, dung, and carrion for nutrients.
Best time to see a Northern Pearly-eye
The best time to see a Northern Pearly-eye is July–August, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 16,924 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Northern Pearly-eye? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Northern Pearly-eye sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Northern Pearly-eye?
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