Red-disked Alpine

Erebia discoidalis

In Wisconsin this species is a spring butterfly of large open bogs. This butterfly is probably more common than its limited Wisconsin sightings would suggest, but its habitat can be difficult to visit and the flight season is very short, which makes this species a real treat to see.

Identifying characteristics

Below, this butterfly is a brownish butterfly, with many grayish white scales toward the wing margins that are similar to the light scaling on the Dusted Skipper, but which look quite different on this larger butterfly. When the forewing is held more aloft, a reddish area in the middle of this wing is obvious.

Above, this butterfly is brown with an area of red in the middle of the forewing. Unlike the other satyrs in Wisconsin, this one does not have any eyespots.

Similar species

None in Wisconsin.

Habitat

Large open bogs.

Flight

One generation, from mid-May through the first week in June.

Abundance

This is not a common species in Wisconsin, but is likely more abundant than the records indicate.

Late Red-disked Alpine Sightings

Date	County	Reported by
Jun 6, 2020	Price	Scott and Ann Swengel
Jun 7, 2008	Douglas	Ann & Scott Swengel
Jun 8, 2014	Price	Randy Powers
Jun 12, 2022	Price	Scott and Ann Swengel
Jun 14, 2022	Douglas	Scott and Ann Swengel

Locations