Desert Orange Tip
Common NameDesert Orange Tip
Scientific NameAnthocharis cethura
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, orange, black
HabitatArid deserts, rocky canyons, chaparral, foothills
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah) and Baja California, Mexico
Host PlantsStreptanthus, Caulanthus, Descurainia, Sisymbrium
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant flower stalks. Larvae feed on flowers and seed pods. The species overwinters as a pupa, typically having one brood per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange forewing tips with black borders on white wings. The underside of the hindwings often displays a mottled green and white pattern, providing camouflage and aiding in identification.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with white wings, featuring distinctive bright orange patches on the forewing tips, bordered by black. The hindwings are mostly white with some dark markings.
