California Tortoiseshell
Common NameCalifornia Tortoiseshell
Scientific NameNymphalis californica
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, chaparral, forest clearings, mountain areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to Baja California, and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host PlantsCeanothus
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on Ceanothus host plants. Larvae are spiny and black with yellow stripes. Adults often overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the bright orange upperwings with distinct black spots and a jagged, dark brown border. The underside is cryptic, resembling bark.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with jagged wing edges, featuring a vibrant orange upperwing with black spots and a dark brown border.
