Darkened Crescent
Common NameDarkened Crescent
Scientific NamePhyciodes cocyta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsdark brown, yellow
HabitatMeadows, open woodlands, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central US, Canada)
Host PlantsAster species, Symphyotrichum umbellatum
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, feed communally, and often overwinter as partially grown caterpillars before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished from similar crescent species by its generally darker overall appearance and more extensive dark markings on the upperside, often with a more solid yellow crescent on the hindwing underside.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown to black wings featuring prominent yellow to orange-yellow spots and bands, including a distinctive crescent mark on the hindwing margin.
