A restless force of the open countryside
Fast, fiery and fond of open countryside, Dark Green Fritillaries are really powerful fliers that soar confidently through the skies on sunny days. But, despite the strength of their wings, they don’t tend to venture too far from their breeding grounds.
In their youth, newly hatched caterpillars eat their eggshells and almost immediately go into hibernation in curled-up leaves or other plant debris. When not eating shell, they’re known to eat Common Dog-violet and other violet species.
Later, like other fritillaries, they have beautifully ornate wings – intricate black patterns across bold orange with a hint of green on the upperwings and beautiful silver spots on the underwing.
The Dark Green Fritillary is a large and bold butterfly that will patrol large areas of habitat for nectar and potential mates, and they’re not afraid of an early morning wake up to make the most of the sun.
Dark Green Fritillaries are found across most of the UK, but they tend to be more abundant in the west. You can find them in flower-rich grasslands, coastal areas, moorland, and woodland rides. Worldwide, this butterfly can be found as far north as the Arctic Circle!
Vibes
Each butterfly is scored out of 100 across a set of traits, from how bold and visible it is to how far it travels or how particular it is about where it lives. These scores compare each species with the other butterflies in Britain, helping you see their differences at a glance. Here’s what makes the Dark Green Fritillary special.
Bright colours, bold patterns, and a love of the spotlight. Some butterflies just can’t help showing off.
Fast, or throwing some seriously impressive moves, these butterflies are in a flutter.
Always on guard, ready to hide or defend - these butterflies have self-preservation down to an art.
It’s ok to be a little… well, weird. These butterflies have been certified with the freak factor.
Like Goldilocks, everything has to be just right for these perfectionists.
Hard to spot and even harder to forget, these butterflies are a true one of a kind.
Bold, curious, and ready to explore, these brave butterflies live for the thrill and aren’t afraid to travel.
Weather-resistant, battle-hardened, and built to survive, these butterflies know how to take it on the wing.
Newly hatched caterpillars eat their eggshells before hibernating for the winter.
Test your knowledge
What unusual thing do Dark Green Fritillary caterpillars do after hatching?
Newly hatched caterpillars eat their eggshells before going into hibernation, giving them an early energy boost.
