Forms
Butterflies of 2023 # 26.
Many wildlife species show variation. This is the valezina form of Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia). Records show that around 10% of female Silver-Washed Fritillaries in Dorset are the variant "valezina". Their upper wings are not orange, but a more washed-out colour. Field guides say that the underwings have a pinkish tinge. Perhaps the light has to be just right because that is something I have yet to see for myself. The underwings still retain the green wash and white streaks of the more common orange form of the insect.
Forms
Butterflies of 2023 # 26.
Many wildlife species show variation. This is the valezina form of Silver-washed Fritillary (Argynnis paphia). Records show that around 10% of female Silver-Washed Fritillaries in Dorset are the variant "valezina". Their upper wings are not orange, but a more washed-out colour. Field guides say that the underwings have a pinkish tinge. Perhaps the light has to be just right because that is something I have yet to see for myself. The underwings still retain the green wash and white streaks of the more common orange form of the insect.