Great Spangled Fritillary

The Great Spangled Fritillary is a large butterfly with bright orange wings marked by black spots and lines. The underside of the wings features a pattern of silver spots on a brown background, which can be seen when the butterfly rests with its wings closed. In these photos, the butterfly is perched description, showcasing both the vibrant upper wing pattern and the intricate details of the underside.

For identification details and comparison with similar species, see Speyeria cybelein the Field Notes section.

Two Moments on Clover
A close view of the butterfly’s bright orange wings with black markings.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Settings: ISO 800 * Aperture f/14.0 * Shutter 1/640 s
E22A5062 • Size: 3273 x 2182

Two Moments on Clover
One Great Spangled Fritillary rests with its proboscis coiled while another continues feeding on red clover.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Settings: ISO 800 * Aperture f/14.0 * Shutter 1/640 s
E22A5064 • Size: 3273 x 2182

A Field Guide View
With wings spread in the sun, this Great Spangled Fritillary shows the orange-and-black pattern typical of the species.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Settings: ISO 800 * Aperture f/14.0 * Shutter 1/640 s
E22A5087 • Size: 3273 x 2182

Underside Clues
Seen from the side, this Great Spangled Fritillary shows the silvery hindwing spots and pale band that help separate it from similar fritillaries.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Settings: ISO 800 * Aperture f/14.0 * Shutter 1/640 s
E22A5091 • Size: 3000 x 2000

Silver Beneath the Wings
As it feeds on red clover, this Great Spangled Fritillary shows the silvery underside spots and pale outer band useful for identification.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Settings: ISO 800 * Aperture f/14.0 * Shutter 1/640 s
E22A5106 • Size: 3000 x 2000

Feeding in Profile
A side view on red clover shows both the orange upper wing pattern and a glimpse of the spotted underside.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Lens: EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
Settings: ISO 800 * Aperture f/14.0 * Shutter 1/640 s
E22A5113 • Size: 3800 x 2533