Description:

Melanitis leda, commonly known as the Common Evening Brown, is a species of butterfly in the family Nymphalidae. It is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of approximately 50-60 mm. The upper-side of the wings are brown with eyespots, while the underside is pale brown with darker brown markings. The species is found in forests, grasslands, and wetlands in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Adults feed on nectar from flowers, while larvae feed on various grasses. Melanitis leda is a widespread and common species, but its habitats are threatened by deforestation, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect this and other butterfly species. The species is also known for its unique behavior of flying low to the ground and resting with its wings folded.