Northwestern Fritillary
Common NameNorthwestern Fritillary
Scientific NameBoloria selene atrocostalis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, white, brown
HabitatMoist meadows, bogs, open woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangePacific Northwest of North America
Host Plantsviolets (Viola spp.)
Flight PeriodLate May to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on violets and typically overwinter as a larva. Adults emerge in late spring and summer, often having two broods.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the prominent, large, silvery-white spots on the underside of the hindwing, set against a reddish-brown and black background. The upperside is a typical fritillary orange with black spots and markings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with orange and black checkered upperwings, and a distinctive underside hindwing pattern of large white spots bordered by reddish-brown and black markings.
