SCIENTIFIC NAME:

BOLARIA SELENE

VERNACULAR NAME: SMALL PEARL BORDERED FRITILLARY

Fig 1
ADULT Wingspan - 35 - 44mm. This delightful butterfly is usually confused with the similar Pearl Bordered Fritillary especially during the period when flight times overlap. The best way to ID both species is to check the underwings. The Small Pearl Bordered has 7 pearls along the outer eddge of the hindwing which are bordered by black chevrons.
CHRYSALIS 15mm. Dark brown and found suspended from a silken pad.
LARVA

22mm. Starting olive green with darker spines and usually difficult to locate as they rest deep within foliage.

EGG Pale yellow (greying with age) and strongly ribbed. Located on or near violets. Hatching time within 10 days.
BEHAVIOUR

A constant flutter, glide and perch pattern with a definite liking for sunbathing.

HABITAT

Sea cliffs, open woodland and clearings, grassy hillsides.

FLIGHT PERIOD

June - July.  Single brooded.

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