Valais, Switzerland, July 2006
Valais, Switzerland, July 2007
Field notes and information
A mountain species from north Spain and across central Europe.
Identification & Similar species: One of a group of 4 very similar species. Differences as follows:
Shepherd's fritillary, B. pales: northwest Spain, Pyrenees, Alps, east Europe, Balkans. Underside forewing lacking black spots. Broad upperside forewing lines. Relatively small.
Mountain fritillary, B. napaea: Pyrenees, Alps, Scandinavia. Underside forewing lacking black spots. Fine upperside forewing lines. Relatively large. Females often with dark dusky purple sheen.
Cranberry fritillary, B. aquilonaris: northern Alps to Scandinavia and eastwards. Underside forewing with black spots. Not confined to mountains.
Balkan fritillary, B. graeca: southern Alps (France), Balkans. Underside forewing with black spots.
Flight: Single brooded in July and August.
Habitat & Behaviour: Open alpine meadows. Usually flowery, often associated with damp areas. Flies very low and fast.
Valais, Switzerland, July 2006
Valais, Switzerland, July 2006
Valais, Switzerland, July 2011
Hautes-Pyrénées, France, July 2018
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Tessin, Switzerland, August 2013
Grisons, Switzerland, July 2013
Grisons, Switzerland, July 2013
Valais, Switzerland, July 2011
Valais, Switzerland, July 2007
Valais, Switzerland, June 2003
Valais, Switzerland, June 2003
Valais, Switzerland, June 2003