Vaud, Switzerland, July 2012
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2012
Field notes and information
A species of bogs in hilly areas from the northern Alps to Scandinavia and eastwards. Isolated colonies in France. It is an apparently localised butterfly in central Europe and the Alps (at least in my experience) but can be very common where it flies. It flies more commonly in suitable habitats across Scandinavia
Identification & Similar species: One of a group of 4 very similar species. Differences as follows:
Shepherd's fritillary, pales: northwest Spain, Pyrenees, Alps, east Europe, Balkans. Underside forewing lacking black spots. Broad upperside forewing lines. Relatively small.
Mountain fritillary, napaea: Pyrenees, Alps, Scandinavia. Underside forewing lacking black spots. Fine upperside forewing lines. Relatively large. Females often with dark dusky purple sheen.
Cranberry fritillary, aquilonaris: northern Alps to Scandinavia and eastwards. Underside forewing with black spots.
Balkan fritillary, graeca: southern Alps (France), Balkans. Underside forewing with black spots.
Flight: Single brooded in June and July.
Habitat & Behaviour: Flowery bogs in hilly areas. Flies low and unhurredly from flower to flower above the bog.
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2012
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2006
The strong black spots on the underside forewing are clearly visible - closely related species also flying in Switzerland have weak shadowy spots (B. napeae, B. pales).
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2006
NW Finland, June 2010
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2006
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2007
Can be common where found - about 10 butterflies visible in this photo roosting in late evening.
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2012
Vaud, Switzerland, June 2011
Vaud, Switzerland, June 2011
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2012
Vaud, Switzerland, June 2011
Vaud, Switzerland, July 2012