Heath Fritillary
Common NameHeath Fritillary
Scientific NameMelitaea athalia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, dark brown
HabitatWoodland clearings, heathland, open woodlands, coppiced areas
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsCommon Cow-wheat, Ribwort Plantain, Foxglove, Germander Speedwell
Flight PeriodLate May to early August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in batches on host plant leaves. Larvae are black with spines, feed gregariously, and overwinter as small larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its intricate, almost 'painted' checkered pattern on the upperside, and the distinct pale bands on the underside hindwing. Dark veins crossing the orange patches are characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a distinctive checkered pattern of orange and dark brown spots across its wings, bordered by a white fringe. The underside is also patterned but often paler.
