As its name implies, this beautiful insect haunts the Gulf of Mexico, and may be seen flying far out over the water. Although it has silver spots like the true fritillaries, the Gulf Fritillary is not closely related to them. Significant emigratory flights of Gulf Fritillaries often take place from the Southeast. Colonization of the North is temporary, as neither the butterfly nor its host plants can withstand northern winters.

description 2 1/2-2 7/8" (64-73 mm). FW long, narrow. Brilliant red-orange above with a few black spots, black network along HW border, and cluster of tiny white spots near FW costa. Below, FW similar but with bright coral-pink base and metallic silver-white teardrops near tip; HW below dull to rich brown or olive with many silver-white orbs and streaks.

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