Silver-washed Fritillary Argynnis paphia

Habitat

The Silver-washed Fritilary is quite common in large broad-leaved woods in southern England but has declined over the last century, particularly from the north and east. In the East Midlands region it is seen sporadically and was not recorded in 2007 or 2008.

Identification

The Silver-washed Fritilary is a large, distinctive fritillary with golden-brown wings and black markings on the upper wing, but is differentiated from other fritillaries by the subtle silver markings on the underside.

Flight times

There is a single generation flying between mid June and early September.

Food plants

Eggs are laid singly in a crevice on the trunk of oak trees close to growth of Common Dog-violets.