Silver-washed Fritillary

Argynnis paphia (59.017)

This large, graceful butterfly is one of the stunning sights to be seen in our native Oak woodlands during mid to late summer. The Silver-washed Fritillary is most conspicuous when flying or feeding in sunny woodland glades and rides. Although this butterfly loves the sun, it breeds in the cooler, shady parts of the woodland where the larval foodplant Common Dog-violet grows.

It is important to note that a small proportion of the female population have wings that are bronze-green colour, known as the form valezina.

Habitat Requirements

The Silver-washed Fritillary has a restricted range in Warwickshire, being found in the Princethorpe Woodland complex centred on Ryton Wood. Woodland management has however been reinstated and the species has flourished and spread into neighbouring woodland in recent years and appears to be making a comeback due to a warmer climate.

Larval Foodplants

The larvae of the Silver-washed Fritillary feed on Common Dog-violet (Viola riviniana).

Distribution in Warwickshire

See maps below. Distribution text required.

1995-2004

2005-2009

2010-2014

2015-2019