Photograph by Tony Mainwood
DESCRIPTION
The largest fritillary in this area. Uppersides of wings are an orange-fulvous colour with black markings. The underside of the hindwing has a greenish tinge on the basal section. Female is darker, lacking the orange tinge of male. Flight is powerful and wide ranging, appearing in low densities.
Wingspan 58 - 68mm.
LIFE CYCLE
Ova laid singly either on dog-violet, sometimes marsh violet, or on a neighbouring plant or dead bracken. Larvae enter hibernation immediately after hatching, and start feeding on the first warm days of Spring, and may sometimes be seen basking on top of vegetation throughout April and May. Pupal stage lasts 3-4 weeks. Adults emerge in late June to early July.
FLIGHT TIMES
Late June to early September, with greatest numbers in July and August.
REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION
Found throughout the mainland area, and on Skye, the Western Isles and Orkney.
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