Common Forester
Common NameCommon Forester
Scientific NameLethe anthedon
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, stream banks
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to the southeastern United States
Host PlantsBrachyelytrum erectum, Carex spp., Poa spp.
Flight PeriodJune to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with a forked tail and two horn-like projections on the head, overwintering as larvae. Pupae are green or brown and suspended head-down.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive row of eyespots on the underside of the hindwings, its overall brown coloration, and its preference for shaded forest understories.
Description
A medium-sized brown butterfly with a series of prominent, dark-ringed eyespots on the underside of its hindwings, often accompanied by a pale, wavy band.
