Shepherd's Fritillary
Common NameShepherd's Fritillary
Scientific NameBoloria pales
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown, white
HabitatAlpine meadows, subalpine grasslands, rocky slopes
Geographic RangeMountains of Europe (Pyrenees, Alps, Carpathians, Balkans) and Central Asia
Host PlantsViola species
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe species overwinters as a larva, which feeds on violet leaves. Pupation occurs in spring, leading to adult emergence in early summer.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinct pattern of creamy-white and reddish-brown patches on the hindwing underside, often with a prominent white central band, and its preference for high-altitude alpine habitats.
Description
A small to medium-sized fritillary with an orange-brown upperside marked with black spots. The underside of the hindwing, visible in the image, features a mosaic of reddish-brown and creamy-white patches.
