The fact of variation is one of the most universal things in nature. No two animals are exactly alike and every plant differs from every other plant. That this is true of the structure of living things is easily observed but it is not so well known, because not so easily observed, that most species of animals differ also in the precise phases of their growth. We know that the variation in form and color has brought about the remarkable adaptations to surroundings which we call mimicry and protective coloration. A little consideration will make it evident that the variation of different individuals in periods of growth must have led also to the adaptation of the life stages to the conditions of the changing seasons. This is particularly true in the great majority of insects which show remarkable adaptations in their various broods to the seasonal conditions of the localities where they live. From this point of view the attractive little Meadow Fritillary is of especial interest. We are indebted to the studies of S. H. Scudder for our knowledge of the remarkable variations in its growth. These are so complicated that in order to make plain the varying conditions it seems necessary to separate the broods in a somewhat hypothetical manner. [Illustration: THE SILVER-SPOT FRITILLARY Upper and lower surfaces (_see page 125_) THE GULF FRITILLARY Lower Surface (_see page 115_)] [Illustration: THE GULF FRITILLARY (_see page 115_) THE SILVER-BORDERED FRITILLARY Upper and under surfaces (_see page 131_) THE BALTIMORE CHECKER-SPOT Upper and under surfaces (_see page 135_)]