Coenonympha leander

(Esper, 1784)

Russian Heath

Description:
The Russian Heath is found both on dry, as well as somewhat damp, grassy vegetation, at wood margins and in woodland clearings and on grasslands. The butterflies have a rather low flight. At rest, just like other heaths, the Russian Heath keeps its wings closed. Sheep's-fescue (Festuca ovina) and Slender False-brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) are among the grasses used as food plants.
This species has one brood a year and hibernates as a caterpillar.

Habitat:
Dry siliceous grasslands
Mixed woodland
Mesophile grasslands
Deciduous forests

Similar species:
Coenonympha glycerion

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