ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Great Spangled Fritillary

 Great Spangled Fritillary


Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery
 		 This large butterfly has a strong flight and frequently stops to nectar, especially at milkweeds, where several adults can be found at one time on a single flower head. Males can be found at mud puddles and animal scats taking in mineral salts and proteins.
 

Great Spangled Fritillary
Speyeria cybele

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: June to September (one long emergence)

• Wings: 3.0 - 3.9 inches


 
Description
The females are larger, darker, and do not appear until late summer when many males are already flight worn.

Habitat and Habits
This species inhabits woodland edges, fields, and gardens. It can be found in all 88 Ohio counties.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Females lay eggs on and near various species o violets. The larvae of the great spangled fritillary feed at night. By the time females lay their eggs, the larval host plants have often died back. This egg-laying behavior is thought to be one reason why a number of species of fritillaries are listed as endangered in the U.S.