Great Spangled Fritilary Butterfly

The Great Spangled Fritillary (Speyeria cybele) is a butterfly of the Nymphalidae family. It is distinguished from the Aphrodite and Atlantis Fritillaries by a wide light submarginal band on the hindwing. It starts flying before dawn and returns to rest in mid-afternoon.

The Great Spangled Fritillary is found throughout the state of Ohio from late June through August and into early September.They are often seen at nectar sources such as Common Milkweed, thistles, or Joe-Pye-Weed. Identifying characteristics: Above, this species is orange with a variety of black markings, but is noticeably darker near the body, especially in fresh individuals. Below, this species is easily told by the wide, light band on the hind wing. Habitat: Open fields and woodland edges. Can be found in both wet and dry habitats.

Flight: One brood. Has been observed from mid-June until late September.