Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary

National Status

Mainly confined to western England and Wales, range contracting. Widespread and common in Scotland. Population trend 10 years to 2016 +3%; since 1976 -58%

West Midlands Status

Limited number of colonies with highest numbers in Shropshire, overall range contracting.

Habitat

Found in a variety of habitats: coppice and ride-edges in ancient woodlands in Wyre; bracken and grass mosaics; and wet meadows and moorlands.

Flight Period

Late May to mid-July. Occasionally a second generation in early August, regularly in southern England, but none since 1995 in the West Midlands.

Hotspots

Cannock Chase (Staffordshire), South Shropshire Hills, Llanymynech (Shropshire-Welsh border), Wyre Forest (Worcestershire).

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Common Dog-violet (Viola riviniana) and Marsh Violet (Viola palustris).