104 
NYMPHALIDAE 
Like the other large Fritillaries, A. aglaia probably rests 
amongst the foliage of trees in wooded country, but during 
stormy weather I have seen this butterfly take shelter on a 
rough bank bordering a wood when a shower of rain suddenly 
started, and in spells of sunshine I have noticed its sudden 
appearance on hill-sides where it had probably rested for 
the night. 
The blossoms of the tall Field Thistle (Cardans acanthoidcs) 
are a great attraction to this beautiful butterfly, and while 
at rest feeding on the nectar of these flowers, it may be easily 
captured if cautiously approached. 
Distribution. A. aglaia is widely distributed throughout 
the British Islands. In Scotland it 
is mostly confined to the mainland, 
but it has occurred in Skye. In 
Ireland it is common in many places 
along the coast. Its range abroad 
extends almost everywhere over the 
Palaearctic regions, being very com¬ 
mon on plains and higher ground 
reaching to an elevation of about 
5,000 feet. 
Time of Appearance. . The normal 
time for the appearance of this 
butterfly is from early, July until 
the middle of August. But during 
warm, early seasons it is on the wing 
at the end of June, and throughout August in late years. 
Hibernation. Like the Silver-washed Fritillary, A. aglaia 
hibernates in the larval state immediately after emerging from 
the egg in August, and does not awaken until the end of the 
following March. Specimens I kept under close observation 
lived without food throughout hibernation for 228 days. 
Egg Laying. This butterfly lays its eggs singly on the 
leaves and stems of the Dog Violet (Viola canina) during the 
latter part of July and early August. 1 have watched the 
females selecting the plants growing under furze bushes on 
open downs to lay their eggs upon. They settle under the 
bush and then creep in to deposit. This species is single 
brooded. 
The Dark Green Fritillary 
(ab. captured at Eynsford, 
Kent, 1901). 
