Variegated Fritillary Butterfly
The Variegated Fritillary butterfly is common throughout the South.
This species extends its range into most northern states during the summer.
This tawny butterfly is generally on the wing from early spring to late fall and sometimes longer in the Deep South.
This butterfly cannot survive the northern winters, however and thus the emigrants die off every winter.
Description:
Members of this species are mostly dark orange above, with numerous black lines throughout.
From wing tip to wing tip it measures 1 and 3/4 to 2 and 1/2 inches.
Habitat:
The Variegated Fritillary frequents a variety of open areas, from fields, roadsides, gardens and parks.
Habits:
This butterfly is a fast flier, usually along a low plane.
Male Fritillarys patrol areas in search of females.
Larvae and Hosts: 
A wide range of host plants including violets (Viola), passion vine (Passiflora), and stonecrops (Sedum), are selected as hosts.
Larvae are mostly orange, with black stripes and numerous black spines running down the body.
Nectar Plants:
Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), clover (Trifolium) shepherd's needle (Bidens), other milkweeds and a host of others.
The Varigated Fritillary also enjoys a wet spot for a good drink.
Variegated Fritillary and other Common butterflies
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