(Denis and Schiffermüller, 1775)
Shepherd's Fritillary
Description:
The Shepherd's Fritillary is a characteristic species of flower-rich sub-alpine and alpine grasslands and can even be found on quite heavily grazed pastures. They can occur in high numbers. At the end of the day, they often roost communally in damp vegetation with tall plants. Long-spurred Pansy (Viola calcarata) is the major food plant, but Alpine Plantain (Plantago alpina) and valerians (Valeriana) are probably also used.
Caterpillars are mostly found on plants growing in dry, rocky places.
The Shepherd's Fritillary has one generation a year and passes the winter in the larval stage.
Habitat:
Alpine grasslands
Heath and shrub
Similar species:
Boloria napaea
Boloria aquilonaris
Boloria graeca