Great Arctic

Satyrs and Wood-Nymphs (Satyrinae) Types of Butterflies Common Ringlet Common Wood Nymph Small Wood Nymph

The Great Arctic (Oeneis nevadensis) butterfly gets its name from its above average size compared to other Satyrinae butterflies.

It is one of a handful of Arctic butterfly species, all of which have a limited range. The Great Arctic is found in the Pacific Northwest and northern California.

They are relatively easy to spot sunning themselves in the early morning sun. The top of the wings (not shown) are brown with a black border.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels