Cardinal Butterfly
Common NameCardinal Butterfly
Scientific NameArgynnis pandora
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsorange, black, blue-green, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, clearings, meadows, scrubland, often near water
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, Himalayas
Host PlantsViola spp. (violets)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on or near violet host plants. Larvae are spiny and feed on violets, overwintering as young caterpillars before pupating.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its large size and, most distinctively, the iridescent blue-green underside of the hindwings with bold white transverse bands, which sets it apart from other fritillaries.
Description
A large fritillary butterfly characterized by orange-brown upperwings with black spots, and a striking iridescent blue-green underside to the hindwings adorned with prominent white bands.
