The Regal Fritillary Speyeria idalia - female. This species is closely associated with prairie habitat where its larval food plants (Viola spp.) are found. Adults nector on wildflower blooms, particularly those of Butterfly Weed, Common Milkweed and Pale-Purple Coneflower.

Painting by William H. Howe, 1986

Regal Fritillary - male. The Regal Fritillary belongs to family Nymphalidae known as the "brush-footed" butterflies. This is the largest family of butterflies in the world and are so named for the forelegs which are useless for walking and, particularly in males, are covered with dense tufts of scales which appear brush-like.
 

Painting by William H. Howe, 2004