Queen of Spain Fritillary Issoria lathonia

Named after Spanish royalty, this butterfly belongs to the Nymphalidae family, one of the largest butterfly families in the world. The Nymphalidae are commonly called brush-footed butterflies because of their distinctively modified front legs that resemble little brushes. This family encompasses many of the most striking butterflies found in nature worldwide.

True to its regal moniker, this species embodies the characteristics of its impressive family—a creature that commands attention with its presence. It's the kind of butterfly that makes observers stop mid-step to watch it move through gardens and meadows with grace and power.