Meadow Fritillary
Common NameMeadow Fritillary
Scientific NameBoloria bellona
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatWet meadows, bogs, marshes, stream banks, forest clearings
Geographic RangeNorthern North America, from Alaska and Canada south through the northern U.S. and into the Appalachian Mountains
Host Plantsviolets (Viola spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on or near violet host plants. Larvae are spiny and dark, overwintering as partially grown caterpillars before pupating on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive orange and black checkered pattern on the upperside. A key feature, when visible, is the lack of silver spots on the underside of the hindwing, which helps distinguish it from other fritillaries.
Description
This butterfly features vibrant orange wings intricately patterned with a dense network of black spots, lines, and wavy bands across both forewings and hindwings.
