Scotch Argus
Erebia aethiopsThe Scotch Argus is a butterfly of northern uplands, found in grasslands, bogs and woodland edges in northern England and Scotland. Their mottled brown underwings provide excellent camouflage, while their velvety dark upperwings with orange-ringed eye spots stand out in flight. Males are highly active in sunshine, constantly searching for mates, while females are more reserved, basking or feeding for long periods. They have a short flight season and are keen to take advantage of warm conditions, so don’t be surprised if they’re the first butterfly up in the morning.
A velvety dark butterfly, with striking orange eyes
The Scotch Argus is a secretive upland specialist. One moment a hillside can appear lifeless – the next, the sun comes out and the landscape comes alive in a flutter of small shadows.
The Scotch Argus flies for only a short season compared to many other butterflies, searching for food amongst grassland, bogs, woodlands and scrub. Females love a sustained feasting session – sometimes feeding on flowers for up to half an hour at a time.
In sunshine, males fly almost without rest, weaving low through the grass in search of a mate. In poorer weather they perch on grassy clumps, flying out to investigate any passing brown butterflies. The females are far less conspicuous and spend most of their time basking.
Easily confused with a dead leaf, its mottled brown underwings help it stay hidden among grass tussocks and vegetation, but its velvety dark brown upperwings, lined with vibrantly orange-ringed eye-spots, make this butterfly stand out.
The Scotch Argus is an early riser, often the first to fly in the morning as its dark wings warm up quickly in the light. On particularly hot days, though, the Scotch Argus will often need to seek out shade – living in the north of England and in Scotland certainly helps with temperature control!
Vibes
Each butterfly is scored out of 100 across a set of traits, from how bold and visible it is to how far it travels or how particular it is about where it lives. These scores compare each species with the other butterflies in Britain, helping you see their differences at a glance. Here’s what makes the Scotch Argus special.
Bright colours, bold patterns, and a love of the spotlight. Some butterflies just can’t help showing off.
Fast, or throwing some seriously impressive moves, these butterflies are in a flutter.
Always on guard, ready to hide or defend - these butterflies have self-preservation down to an art.
It’s ok to be a little… well, weird. These butterflies have been certified with the freak factor.
Like Goldilocks, everything has to be just right for these perfectionists.
Hard to spot and even harder to forget, these butterflies are a true one of a kind.
Bold, curious, and ready to explore, these brave butterflies live for the thrill and aren’t afraid to travel.
Weather-resistant, battle-hardened, and built to survive, these butterflies know how to take it on the wing.
Female Scotch Arguses can feed for up to 30 minutes at a time, spending long stretches enjoying nectar from flowers.
Test your knowledge
Why are Scotch Argus often among the first butterflies to fly in the morning?Their dark wings absorb heat efficiently, allowing them to warm up and become active earlier than other butterflies.
Does the Scotch Argus get your vote?