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Features:
This 3.4 to 3.6 inch butterfly, Speyeria idalia, cannot be mistaken
for any species due to its velvety, blue-black hindwing. The male
marginal (outer) row of spots on the hindwing is fulvous, and white
on the female, as well as the sub-marginal row. Females exhibit
paler base colors. Adults are in flight from mid June to mid September.
Flight pattern is slow and gliding.
Habitat:
The Regal Fritillary favors open, grassy fields near wet meadows
or marshy areas.
Feeding:
Feeding at night on various species of violets, the Regal Fritillary
hides by day.
Reproduction:
Eggs are deposited on an assortment of plants, but most likely near
or on violets. Larve are velvety dark brown or black with six rows
of dark barbed spines. |
