On the left is Boloria euphrosyne, the pearl-bordered fritillary, also a Nymphalidae. The caterpillar hatches in May or June, feeds on violas, and hibernates in a dead leaf in July. When fully grown is up to 25 mm long. It has a black body with a row of white spots along each side. The spines on its back can be black, yellow or white. The head is black. It pupates the following May. Adult wingspan is 38 - 46 mm, and it flies in May and June. There is usually one generation per year in Northern Europe and two in Central and Southern Europe. It is found in woodland clearings and edges. Formerly it was widespread in the UK, but is now uncommon.

Tips on creating a butterfly garden - no matter how small the patch.

On the right is Argynnis aglaja, the dark green fritillary, Nymphalidae. It is found in moorlands, cliffs and open woods throughout Europe. There is one generation a year. Eggs are yellowish laid singly on the stems of dog violet, and hatch in 2 - 3 weeks. The caterpillar eats it egg shell then hibernates at the base of the plant. It emerges next spring and feeds until June or July. When not feeding it hides beneath the plant. The caterpillar is velvet-black with hairy spines, a yellow stripe along its back and red spots down both sides. When fully grown the caterpillar can reach 38 mm long. The chrysalis is shiny black and brown and enclosed in a tent of leaves held together with silk. The adult flies from June to August. It has a rapid and powerful flight. The adult wingspan is 48 - 60 mm.

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