Based on 21,321 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Gulf Fritillary is most often recorded in September; in California it behaves like a seasonal. It ranks #5 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
Dione vanillae
Gulf Fritillary in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in California in September
Monarch
Fiery Skipper
Gray Hairstreak
Woodland Skipper
Gray Buckeye
Small White
Umber Skipper
Western Giant Swallowtail
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Gulf Fritillary appear in California?
Mainly June–November, with the most records in September.
How common is Gulf Fritillary in California?
It ranks #5 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in California (21,321 records in our sample).