About Meadow Brown
The most abundant butterfly in Britain, a brown species with a single eyespot on each forewing.
Did You Know?
So common it is often overlooked but plays a crucial role as a pollinator of wildflowers in grasslands.
How to Identify Meadow Brown
Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Nymphalidae. Adults typically measure Wingspan 40-55mm.
Meadow Brown Habitat
Meadow Brown is found in grasslands habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Meadow Brown Diet and Feeding
Meadow Brown is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Meadow Brown Found?
Meadow Brown can be found in Europe, where it inhabits grasslands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Meadow Brown can be found
Is Meadow Brown Dangerous?
Meadow Brown is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Meadow Brown Role in Nature
Meadow Brown is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Meadow Brown
What does Meadow Brown look like?
The Meadow Brown typically measures Wingspan 40-55mm.
Where is Meadow Brown found?
The Meadow Brown is found in Europe and typically inhabits grasslands environments.
What does Meadow Brown eat?
The Meadow Brown feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Meadow Brown dangerous to humans?
The Meadow Brown is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Meadow Brown?
So common it is often overlooked but plays a crucial role as a pollinator of wildflowers in grasslands.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/meadow-brown
MLA:
"Meadow Brown." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/meadow-brown.