Description

The Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia) is a medium-sized butterfly with orange-brown wings marked by intricate black and white patterns, and a distinctive row of dark spots along the edges, commonly found in open habitats such as fields, meadows, and roadsides across North and South America.

Range

It is found throughout the state. More common in the southern part of the state.

Similar Species

None.

Host Plants

Larvae feed on a fairly wide range of plants including: Common Violet (Viola spp.), Passionflower (Passiflora spp.), Purslane (Portulaca spp.), Stonecrop (Sedum spp.), Plantain (Plantago spp.), Flax (Linum spp.)

Flight

Migrates to Minnesota each year from the southern US, with first sightings usually in May and June. It sticks around until mid-October in warm years.