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four-footed butterfly,
any of a group of butterflies (order Lepidoptera) that are named for their
characteristically reduced forelegs, which are frequently hairy and resemble brushes.
The insects’ alternative name derives from the fact that there are only four functional, or
walking, legs.
glasswing butterfly
gulf fritillary
Most species have a wingspan of 35–90 mm (1.5–3.5 inches) and white, yellow, or
brown wings with contrasting markings and undersurfaces often with duller, more
protective coloration. Common nymphalids include the anglewings, mourning cloaks,
and thistles (subfamily Nymphalinae); heliconians and fritillaries (subfamily
Heliconinnae); and viceroy butterflies (subfamily Limenitidinae). Most nymphalid
larvae are brightly coloured and have knobby projections (tubercules), horns, and
branching spines. The naked pupae, or chrysalids, hang head downward.
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Adult anglewings show seasonal dimorphism, with the autumnal generation being hairy
and lighter-coloured. Some also exhibit sexual dimorphism, with the female being
less conspicuous than the male. Most species have a silvery spot on the undersurface of
each hindwing. The spiny larvae feed on elm and birch trees, hops, and nettles.
The thistle butterfly (Vanessa) is named for its principal larval host plant. Some species,
such as the painted lady (V. cardui), migrate during adulthood, traveling in large
groups.
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The name fritillary is applied to several nymphalid genera. The large fritillaries, or
silverspots, belong to the genus Speyeria and usually have silver markings on the
undersides of the wings. Many of the smaller fritillaries are members of the
genus Boloria. Many fritillary larvae are nocturnal and feed on violet leaves.