Rätzer, 1890
Rätzer's Ringlet
Description:
Rätzer's Ringlet is found on steep, sunny slopes on acid soil with patches of grassy vegetation and rocks, and scattered larches or fir trees. It is one of the rarest European butterflies, having not more than six or seven populations.
The butterflies often bask in the sun with their wings wide open. The males congregate regularly on damp ground. The females visit different nectar plants, and are especially fond of thyme. They lay their eggs on the dry grass stems of Sheep's Fescue (Festuca ovina).
Before completing their development, the caterpillars hibernate twice.
Habitat:
Alpine grasslands
Screes
Inland cliffs and exposed rocks
Similar species:
Erebia claudina
Erebia epiphron