Melitaea didyma is a medium-sized very brightly colored species that is widespread and common over much of Europe. 
    The dorsal side black wing border is solid and uniform, usually touching the post discal arches.
   The dorsal side of the wings is a bright orange brown with dark brown markings arranged in rows, which are variable in quantity and size.
   The color of the females is a duller orange, with grey green shading. The ventral side of the wings is checkered pale yellow and pale orange.  They have seasonal forms and sexual dimorphism.
   They fly from March to October depending on the location. They have two or three generations and overwinter as young caterpillars.
   They can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including dry, flowery places, woodland or scrub clearings, meadows, dry rocky gullies and areas of marginal areas of cultivation.