Species profile
About this species
The False Grayling is a medium-sized butterfly belonging to the family Nymphalidae, found across parts of central & southern Europe. It has warm brown upperwings with a distinctive orange-buff patch on the forewings, each containing a small black eyespot. The species is often confused with the true Grayling but can be distinguished by its smaller size & simpler wing patterning.
Dry, open grasslands, heathland, rocky slopes & scrubby terrain with sparse vegetation, typically on calcareous or sandy soils at low to moderate altitudes
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph False Grayling with us in Bulgaria.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Mid-summer to early autumn, particularly July to September, during warm sunny days in the late morning to early afternoon when adults are most active
Approach slowly & from a low angle to capture the cryptic resting posture on bare ground or rocks, where the butterfly tilts its wings to minimise shadow. Focus on the forewing eyespot as a key point of interest, using a macro or telephoto lens to fill the frame without disturbing the subject. Photographing in the early morning when temperatures are cooler will allow longer observation periods as the butterfly warms itself & remains relatively still.
Available holidays
Trips featuring False Grayling
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.