Jutta Arctic  Oeneis jutta (Hübner, [1806])
Photo: Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History

In eastern Canada (southeastern Manitoba to the east coast) the subspecies of this butterfly, ascerta, is a dark brown color with a band of yellowish to orange colored spots running near the edge of the wings. In some of these spots, you will find a black eye-spot. Some of these eye-spots even have white pupils. On the underside of this butterfly, the hindwing has greyish colors through it, while the borders of both wings are checkered with white. The wingspan is 35-59 mm. To distinguish between the sexes, look for a subtle black patch, running on a diagonal in the forewing of the male.

Range: With the exception of P.E.I., the Jutta Arctic can be found throughout Canada. It is present in all provinces, the Yukon and in the western Northwest Territories. As for coastal areas, it can be found on the east coast, however, not along the Pacific or Arctic coasts. This butterfly is also found in the northern U.S., including Alaska, in northern Europe and in Asia. Interesting to note is that in all it's range, the Jutta Arctic reaches it's largest size and brightest markings in Nova Scotia!

Abundance: Common in suitable habitats.

Flight Period: Between late May-August, depending on location. An interesting characteristic of this butterfly is that in most areas it is biennial, being seen once every two years. Between southeastern Manitoba and the east coast, this butterfly appears during "odd" years.

Life Cycle: The eggs of this species are yellowish-white. The caterpillars are pale green with white and green stripes and reddish hairs. On the head, you will find brown dots.

Nature Notes: This butterfly is mostly found in Black Spruce and Tamarack bogs (where it prefers treed area edges over open spaces) and tundra areas.