Little Wood-Satyr

Megisto cymela

It is always a pleasure to see the first individuals of this species, low to the ground, slowly working their way through the woods in late May or early June. This species is often still present in the July NABA counts, and so seems to announce the beginning of the summertime species.

Identifying characteristics

Above, a brown butterfly, smaller than the Eyed and Appalachian Browns, with two prominent eyespots on the forewing and on the hindwing, usually one or two eyespots on the male and two on the female. In addition, there may be an additional smaller spot near the body.

Below, there are two distinct lines across both wings, two eyespots on the forewing and two large eyespots on the hindwing as well as several smaller ones.

Similar species

None in Wisconsin, although a beginner may have some confusion with the Northern Pearly-eye and the Appalachian and Eyed Browns. These other species are larger, found later in the season, and usually are stronger fliers compared to the Little Wood-Satyr’s slow methodical flight, low through the woods.

Habitat

A variety of woodland habitats including wooded fence rows and disturbed habitats.

Flight

One brood form late May to early June through early August.

Abundance

At its peak this species may be abundant, with over 100 individuals not an infrequent count total.

Locations