Species Insects & ArthropodsDiana Fritillary

Diana Fritillary

Speyeria diana

RareInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Diana Fritillary (Speyeria diana)

The Diana Fritillary is one of North America's most spectacular butterflies, with striking sexual dimorphism: males are tawny orange and black, while females mimic the Pipevine Swallowtail with iridescent blue-black hindwings. It is restricted to the Appalachian highlands and adjacent lowlands and is a species of conservation concern. Males emerge weeks before females each summer.

Habitat
Rich deciduous mountain forests and stream valleys
Diet
Larvae: violet leaves. Adults: nectar from milkweed and thistles
How common
Rare

Best time to see a Diana Fritillary

The best time to see a Diana Fritillary is May–June, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,725 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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