This fritillary is similar in size and habits to the Pearl-bordered Fritillary but is more widespread and occurs in damper, grassy habitats as well as woodland clearings and moorland.  The adults fly close to the ground, stopping frequently to take nectar from flowers such as Bramble and thistles.  It can be identified from the more numerous whitish pearls on the underside hind wings, the outer ones bordered by black chevrons, and from the larger black central dot.  The butterfly has undergone a severe decline in England.