This is the only Fritillary which has strong migratory tendencies, having occasionally reached Ireland from its strongholds on the continent. It is an active butterfly with distinctive pearl markings on its underside, although it frequently stops to feed on nectar-rich flowers, offering good views at times. It in not an uncommon species in its European range, but it does seem to be somewhat local.

Distribution: Resident in most of Europe. Migrates to southern Britain and central and northern Fennoscandia in good years.

Flight Period: March-October in several broods.

Habitat: Generally prefers relatively open, flowery sites such as garrigue, meadows, steppic grassland, alpine meadows and woodland clearings up to 2700m.

Foodplants: Various species of violet (Viola).

Nectar Sources: Scabiouses (Knautia, Succisa), Marjoram (Origanum majorana), Buddleia, Sedum, thymes (Thymus), mints (Mentha), thistles (Cirsium), knapweeds (Centaurea) etc.

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