Meadow Fritillary
Boloria bellona
The Meadow Fritillary is common butterfly throughout Wisconsin. In central Wisconsin I see this species often in barren habitat, with American Coppers. This species seems to like alighting on very light areas, and I have a numerous photos of this species sunning itself on dried grasses or reindeer moss like in the second photo.

Weekly sightings for Meadow Fritillary
Identifying characteristics
Above, this species is completely orange with black markings. Below the hindwing is very distinctive with a light, purplish hoariness over the outer half of this wing. Usually there are no distinct light areas near the leading edge of the wings, but occasionally there is a light area near the body on the leading edge of the hind wing.
Similar species
This species is most likely to be confused with the Frigga Fritillary because of the similar purplish sheen over the outer half of the hindwing below. The Frigga always has a light area by the leading edge and has lighter cells in the middle of the hindwing below. Above, the Frigga Fritillary is noticeably darker toward the body, while the Meadow still shows a lot of orange.
Habitat
Wet to dry meadows.
Flight
Two broods. This species can be found from early May through September. In Michigan this species has been seen on October 6.
Abundance
Found throughout the state. This species may be fairly common in an area, but usually they are seen singly. I have seen over 80 of these butterflies in a single day.
Recent Meadow Fritillary Sightings
Date | County | Reported by |
---|---|---|
May 31, 2023 | Jackson | Scott and Ann Swengel |
May 28, 2023 | Wood | Scott and Ann Swengel |
May 27, 2023 | Bayfield | Scott and Ann Swengel |
May 25, 2023 | Juneau | Mike Reese, Jay Watson... |
May 23, 2023 | Iowa | Joan Braune and Tod Hi... |
Locations



Germania Marsh, Marquette Co., WI, June 29, 2005.

North of Mount Morris, Waushara Co., WI, August 21, 2002.

East of Wazee Park, Jackson Co., WI, May 15, 2005.

Germania Marsh, Marquette Co., WI, June 29, 2005.