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
Grisons, Switzerland, July 2013
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