California Dogface
Common NameCalifornia Dogface
Scientific NameZerene eurydice
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsyellow, green
HabitatChaparral, oak woodlands, foothills, canyons
Geographic RangeCalifornia, USA
Host PlantsAmorpha californica
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant. Larvae are green with a white stripe, camouflaged on leaves. Pupae are green and angular, resembling a leaf or stem.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by the distinctive black 'dogface' pattern on the upper side of their forewings. Females are typically solid yellow or white with a black spot on the forewing. The greenish-yellow underside is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright yellow to greenish-yellow wings. The underside, as seen, is uniformly greenish-yellow with a small dark discal spot on the forewing and a white spot on the hindwing.
