A male Common Brown Butterfly (Heteronympha merope merope) spotted near the base of the Shergis Avenue Steps …

This male Common Brown Butterfly was spotted in the Linear Park near the base of the Shergis Avenue steps. These butterflies need open and shady areas, as well as leafy grasses for their caterpillars to feed on. The males (more mottled wing patterns, distinctive’sex brand’ on the upper forewings) are usually seen from late October to January. The females are occasionally seen from late October but are the only Common Browns still seen from March to May, laying eggs on lush grasses.

Photo: Heather Whiting, ‘Levi Slopes’ Willow Bend, Vale Park 4.12.12