Size: Up to 2.5 inch wingspan

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Key ID features:  Above mauve-brown with large eye spots on both FW and HW. FW above has curving band of ivory almost forming a "6" around one of the eyes, and two orange bars ringed in black on the leading edge. Relatively unmarked below, with irregular bands of pale tans and grays, and pale submedian row of spots on the HW.

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Similar species: No other Oregon butterfly has large eye spots on FW and HW against brown-gray ground color.

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Host plant: A variety of species in the figwort family, including penstemons, paintbrushes, veronicas and monkeyflowers.

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Habitat: Forest openings, riparian areas, subalpine meadows, mostly above 3,000 feet. 

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Range: Nearly all of southern half of Oregon, and both flanks of the Cascades from Wasco County south.

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Season: Late May to late October

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Abundance: Uncommon 

 

Conservation Status: Secure