Argynnis paphia

Silver-washed Fritillary - the largest fritillary in Ireland with a wing span of 54-70mm. The underside is green with silver streaks hence the name. They feed on bramble, thistles and knapweed. The caterpillars food source is violets. The male here has a distinctive bright orange colour. The female is paler in colour. Photographed in Greaghnafarna Co. Leitrim. Ireland.

John Foss Nature Photography Birds Wild Flowers Wildlife Butterflies Moths Greaghnafarna Ballinaglera Ireland Leitrim Derby England UK Algarve Portugal