Meadow Argus

Scientific Name: Junonia villida

Size: Wingspan 40-50 mm

What does it look like?

The adult Meadow Argus male and female are similar. Predominantly brown with patches of orange (all wings) and whitish (forewings) on upper surface. Each wing with conspicuous blue eye spots, each surrounded by a dark brown ring and a larger orange patch. Undersurface of wings similarly patterned but paler. Caterpillar brown to blackish with yellowish-orange collar behind head and numerous short, black, branched spikes.

Where is it found?

Widely distributed throughout Australia and the South Pacific.

What are its habitats & habits?

The Meadow Argus is found in a variety of woodlands and grasslands, including gardens, where males establish territories around larval food plants. Both sexes fly close to the ground, perching often on or close to the ground to rest in the sun or feed on nectar from flowers. Caterpillar feeds on various native and introduced plants and grows to around 40mm.