Diana Fritillary (Butterflies of Alabama)

Diana Fritillary

Speyeria diana

Summary ⁵

The Diana Fritillary (Speyeria diana) is a dimorphic butterfly found in several wooded areas in southern and eastern North America (primarily in the Arkansas River valley, several counties in South Carolina, and spots along the Appalachian mountain range). Males of the species exhibit an orange color on the edges of their wings, with a burnt orange underwing which does not have the typical silver scales found in most fritillary species. The female is dark blue, with...

North american ecology (us and canada) ⁶

Speyeria diana is resident in the s. Appalachians from western Va and WV to northeast Ga and the Ark. Ozarks. It is migratory but uncommon elsewhere and became extinct in southeastern Va in 1951 (Scott 1986). Habitats are deciduous and pine woodland near streams. Host plants are herbaceous, limited to a few species of genus Viola (Violaceae). Eggs are laid haphazardly, near the host plant, singly. Individuals overwinter as unfed first instar larvae. There is one flight each year with the approximate flight time June 15-early Aug. (Scott 1986).