Brush-footed butterflies · Sweden

Silver-washed fritillary

Argynnis paphia

A large fritillary butterfly with yellow-orange wings; the male has four black scent markings on the forewings. It flies from mid-July in forests with a rich ground cover and is expanding in Sweden.

Status in this countryLeast concern in SwedenLC (Least concern)

Flight period

Flying from just before mid-July, with a peak at the end of July; occasional females may be seen into the end of August.

Habitat

Forests with rich humus, particularly deciduous forests and forest edges.

Identifying features

Wingspan 53–65 millimetres. On the upper side, the wings are yellowish-red with black markings; the male has four wide black scent markings on the forewing. The underside of the hindwing is greenish with silver-white bands.

Similar species

No similar species are described in the sources consulted.

Distribution

Occurs from Skåne to Värmland and Dalarna, as well as along the coast to Medelpad; the distribution is expanding.

Biology

The larvae feed on violets.