Speyeria sp.

This fritillary butterfly belongs to the genus Speyeria. There are many species in this genus. Larvae of this genus in Montana prefer to feed on host plants within the Viola genus. Females typically lay their eggs on the underside of plant debris near suitable host plants. The eggs usually take from 1-3 weeks to hatch. Adults are common in meadows during the summer. 

Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Nymphalidae
Species: Speyeria sp.

Photograph: © 2008 RKD Peterson
Date of Photograph: 14 June 2008
Location: Montana, Gallatin Co. (45o32'07" N 111o01'01" W)