Cuban Crescent
Common NameCuban Crescent
Scientific NameAnthanassa frisia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, gardens, and disturbed areas in tropical and subtropical regions.
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida (USA), West Indies (including Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Jamaica), Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
Host PlantsRuellia, Blechum pyramidatum
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas; primarily spring through fall in Florida.
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. The larvae are spiny, typically dark with lighter markings, and the pupae are mottled brown or green, often camouflaged as dead leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive orange and black checkered pattern on the upperwings. The underside of the hindwing typically exhibits a prominent pale crescent mark, which is the origin of its common name.
Description
This small to medium-sized butterfly displays a vibrant dorsal pattern of bright orange and black patches, bands, and spots across both forewings and hindwings, with prominent black borders.
