California Patch
Common NameCalifornia Patch
Scientific NameChlosyne californica
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38.5
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatArid regions, deserts, chaparral, rocky canyons, open scrubland
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah) and Baja California, Mexico
Host PlantsEncelia farinosa, Ambrosia dumosa
Flight PeriodFebruary to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and often gregarious, feeding on brittlebush or burrobrush before pupating into a chrysalis. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent bright orange and black checkered pattern, especially the broad orange band on the hindwing and the row of white submarginal spots. The underside also exhibits a similar distinct pattern.
Description
This butterfly features a vibrant pattern of bright orange patches and spots on a dark blackish-brown background, with a distinct row of small white spots along the outer wing margins.
