Mormon Fritillary
Common NameMormon Fritillary
Scientific NameSpeyeria mormonia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatHigh elevation meadows, open forests, subalpine areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south through the Rocky Mountains to New Mexico and Arizona, and west to California and Nevada
Host PlantsViola spp. (violets)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on or near violet host plants. Larvae hatch and overwinter without feeding, then emerge in spring to feed on violet leaves before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished from other fritillaries by its generally smaller size and the characteristic dorsal pattern of black spots and markings. The underside of the hindwing typically lacks large, distinct silver spots, often having duller or absent silvering.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright orange upperwings heavily marked with intricate black spots, lines, and chevrons, particularly along the margins and veins.
