I captured this Orange On Orange this afternoon. A Great Spangled Fritillary (Speyeria cybele) thoroughly enjoying the nectar of Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa). This creature was dining on the nectar for at least 45 minutes. Quite satisfied with its discovery.

Female Great Spangled Fritillaries lay their eggs near violets in August or September. The newly hatched caterpillars burrow down into the soil where they will sleep during the winter. As spring arrives the caterpillars emerge and eat the nearby, newly developing violet leaves. These violet leaves are the only leaves that the Great Spangled Fritillary caterpillars can eat. Its sole host plant.

As adults Great Spangled Fritillaries dine on the nectar of many species of flowers such as Milkweed, Purple Coneflower, and Red Clover. Many species of butterflies live just two to four weeks, but Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies often will live from mid-spring until early autumn.

Wonderful to have them around so long enjoying the flowers in the woods.

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