The violet fritillary butterfly (Boloria
dia) is one of the smallest fritillaries, its wingspan being up to 3.4
centimetres. It is found quite commonly in central and eastern Europe but only
in local populations further south. It inhabits forest edges, open woodland and
meadows on low hillsides, reaching no higher than 1000 metres.
It is light orange-brown with black spots.
The underside forewings are similar but paler, but the hindwings are
purple-brown with white spots. Males and females look similar.
The flight period is from mid-spring to
early autumn, during which up to three broods may be produced.
The food plants are violets and brambles.
©
John Welford
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