The Meadow Brown butterfly (Maniola jurtina) is a common and widespread species native to the United Kingdom, known for its muted brown wings with distinctive eye spots. It is one of the most abundant butterflies in the UK, found in a variety of grassy habitats including meadows, fields, woodland edges, and gardens.

Meadow Brown butterflies primarily feed on the nectar of various flowering plants such as knapweeds, thistles, and brambles. As caterpillars, they feed on grasses like fescues and bents. Their adaptable feeding habits allow them to thrive in diverse grassland environments.

In terms of behaviour, Meadow Brown butterflies are known for their low and fluttery flight patterns, often seen gliding among the tall grasses and flowers. They are also social creatures, gathering in groups during mating season and engaging in courtship displays.

The lifespan of a Meadow Brown butterfly typically ranges from one to two weeks for adults, with multiple generations emerging throughout the summer months. Their lifecycle is closely tied to the availability of food plants and suitable breeding habitats.

Culturally, the Meadow Brown butterfly has been depicted in various artworks, literature, and folklore as a symbol of summer and the countryside. Its muted colours and presence in natural landscapes evoke feelings of nostalgia and tranquility.

An interesting fact about the Meadow Brown butterfly is its role as an indicator species for the health of grassland habitats. Their abundance and distribution can provide valuable insights into the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of an area, making them important subjects for conservation efforts in the UK.