Cynthia's Fritillary
Common NameCynthia's Fritillary
Scientific NameChlosyne gorgone
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatOpen prairies, grasslands, fields, open woodlands, roadsides
Geographic RangeCentral North America, from southern Canada to Texas, extending east to parts of the Atlantic coast
Host PlantsHelianthus (sunflower) species, other Asteraceae
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, black with orange markings, and feed communally, overwintering as larvae before pupating.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pattern of orange and white spots on a black background. Key features include the prominent white band on the forewing upperside and the lack of silver spots on the underside (though not visible here), which helps distinguish it from other checkerspots.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking pattern of black, orange, and white. The upperside features a black background with intricate bands and spots of bright orange and white, often with a prominent white band on the forewing.
