Dark Green Fritillary

Special features: The dark green fritillary gets its name from the olive-green patches, dotted with pearly-white spots, on the undersides of its wings.

It is similar in appearance to the silver-washed fritillary, but smaller and with more rounded forewings.

The dark green fritillary is noted for its fast flight.

Latin name: Argynnis aglaja

Size: Wingspan approximately 60mm.

Distribution: Scattered throughout the U.K., especially in coastal locations. Less commonly seen in eastern areas.

Months seen: June to September.

Habitat: Heaths, cliffs, downs and meadows.

Food: Nectar. The black spiny caterpillars feed on violets.