The meadow brown is a widespread and common butterfly; it is found throughout Europe reaching east to Asia Minor and Iran.
As its name suggests, it is closely associated with meadows. Furthermore, it is found in swampland, woodland clearings, heaths, road verges and waste ground, and also in urban habitats including gardens, parks and cemeteries.
The meadow brown is dark brown in color with an eyespot on each forewing. It has a wingspan of 50-55 mm. The caterpillar is yellowish green with a dark green underside. It is covered in long white hairs.
The adults are on the wing from early June to late October. Adults fly even in dull weather when most other butterflies are inactive.