Melitaea athalia Heath Fritillary

Description

Taxonomy Identification: Family Nymphalidae, first named by Rottemburg in 1775

Colour: Topside (recto) is predominantly dark brown and orange brown, with the orange-brown spots delineated by dark brown; there is a white fringe to the wings through which the dark brown extends. The underside (verso) shows bands of red and off-white, each vein dark brown and each colour delineated by dark brown.

Size: Wingspan 37-47mm

Comments & Applications: Commonly called the “Heath Fritillary” also known as the “woodman’s follower” through it’s association with coppiced woodland. This butterfly is widespread throughout the continent but very rare in the United Kingdom limited to small colonies in the South of England.

Very popular with the trade due to its bright colours, ideal for butterfly framing, domes, artwork, photography, interior design, film and reference collections.

Format: Choose either SET with wings spread mounted on a pin with locational data OR Papered/unmounted requiring relaxing and setting

More information: Wikipedia – Captive Breeding