Chryxus Arctic
Common NameChryxus Arctic
Scientific NameOeneis chryxus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black, white
HabitatAlpine meadows, open coniferous forests, rocky slopes, tundra
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alaska and Yukon south through the Rocky Mountains to New Mexico, and east to Manitoba and Ontario
Host PlantsFestuca, Poa, Carex
Flight PeriodLate May to early August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various grasses and typically overwinter twice before pupating. Adults emerge in late spring to mid-summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the highly mottled and cryptic underside pattern, the orange-brown upperside with distinct black eyespots on the forewing, and its preference for rocky, open, high-elevation habitats.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a mottled brown, white, and black underside, providing excellent camouflage against rocks. The visible forewing upperside is orange-brown with a prominent black eyespot.
