Photo © Pete Eeles

Woodland Grayling

Hipparchia fagi

Checklist Number
59.0131 [B&F: 1622]

Verification
Record requires retention of specimen until confirmed, and may require dissection. Consult with CMR if unsure

Classification

Family:Nymphalidae
Subfamily:Satyrinae
Genus:Hipparchia
Species:fagi
Authority:(Scopoli, 1763)

Locally common, in woodland clearings, woodland edges and scrubby grassland, throughout much of central and southern Europe.

A single male was caught at Oxted in Surrey in July 1946. Natural occurrence is very unlikely and it is believed to have been accidentally introduced, possibly as an immature stage, and unclear why this should be included on the British list.

Wingspan 66-76 mm. Larva feeds on Upright Brome, Red Fescue and various grasses.