Nokomis Fritillary
Common NameNokomis Fritillary
Scientific NameSpeyeria nokomis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsorange, black, yellowish-tan, silver
HabitatWet meadows, mountain valleys, riparian areas, often near streams or springs.
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from the Rocky Mountains to the Sierra Nevada, extending from southern Canada through the western US to northern Mexico.
Host PlantsViola species (violets)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on or near host violets; larvae hatch and overwinter, then feed on violet leaves in spring, pupating into a chrysalis. One brood per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, bright orange and black uppersides, and especially the underside of the hindwing which is yellowish-tan with large, distinct silver spots outlined in black.
Description
A large, striking fritillary butterfly with bright orange uppersides marked with black spots and lines, and undersides featuring a yellowish-tan ground color with prominent, often silvery, spots.
