Antillean Crescent
Common NameAntillean Crescent
Scientific NameAnthanassa frisia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, gardens, and disturbed areas in tropical and subtropical regions.
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida, West Indies (Antilles), Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
Host PlantsRuellia, Stenandrium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical parts of its range; multiple broods from spring to fall in subtropical areas.
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay eggs on host plants, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves before pupating. The chrysalis is typically green or brown, and the adult butterfly emerges after a period of metamorphosis.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive pattern of numerous bright orange spots on a dark background, and its rapid, low flight. The underside pattern is similar but often paler.
Description
This small butterfly features dark brown to black wings densely covered with numerous bright orange spots, creating a striking checkered appearance. The body is also dark with some orange markings.
