The great-spangled fritillary, above, is a common fritillary sometimes found in backyards.

The regal fritillary, below, is an Illinois state threatened species found only in a few sites in Illinois. This specimen was photographed in a nature preserve in Mason County.

Preservation of remaining prairie habitat is essential to the survival of butterflies like the beautiful regal fritillary, that are restricted to prairie environments.

The variegated fritillary (bottom) also occurs in Anderson Prairie.

Fritillary caterpillars feed mostly on violets.