Cluj, Romania, May 2009

Cluj, Romania, May 2009

Field notes and information

A dusky species, found locally in flowery meadows where it flutters and glides slowly. It is extremely similar to the Nickerl's fritillary aurelia from which I don't think it can be separated reliably from wing markings alone. The current species is said to inhabit damper localities.

Identification & Similar species: Separation from some similar species can be very difficult and even impossible for many individuals. However study of genetalia on living male butterflies is possible and gives definitive results. See the

Heath fritillary, M. athalia for features that may help separate this and other similar species.

Distribution & Flight: A few places in north Italy, Slovenia, Bulgaria and eastern Sweden. More widespread from eastern Austria, Poland and Romania. Single brooded in June/ July, possibly double brooded in north Italy.

Habitat & Behaviour: Meadows, often damp. May be in woodland.

Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Cluj, Romania, May 2009

Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Identification of the difficult Mellicta group by genitalia. Click on link to review the Mellicta

Cluj, Romania, May 2009

(c) Peter Rowlings SE Czech Republic, end June 2001

Cluj, Romania, May 2009

SE Czech Republic, end June 2001