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Diana Fritillary
Speyeria diana
36.5484, -82.5618
Field Notes
Description:
The Diana is a large, magnificent butterfly. The orange males have black outer margins and the females are iridescent blue or blue-green above and black below. Fritillary is derived from the Latin word fritillus, meaning “dice-box,” probably referring to spot patterns on the wings. The butterflies are large (3.5" wingspan) and showy.
Habitat:
The Diana once had a wider range, but now it is found only in or near rich bottomland woodlands in the Appalachians and sparingly in the Ozarks. Diana fritillaries thrive in moist, mountainous habitats. It is a relatively long-lived butterfly, with adults living four to five months, increasing citizens’ chances of viewing them.
Notes:
Look for Dianas in July and August. Adults nectar at milkweeds. Females wait until midafternoon to arrive at patches of nectar plants. Caterpillars eat the leaves of violets. Adults require high-quality nectar plants. The Diana Fritillary butterfly was designated the official butterfly of Arkansas in 2007.
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