Desert Orangetip
Common NameDesert Orangetip
Scientific NameAnthocharis cethura
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorswhite, green, orange
HabitatDeserts, arid scrublands, rocky canyons, chaparral
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah) and Baja California, Mexico
Host PlantsCaulanthus inflatus, Streptanthus spp., Descurainia pinnata
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the flower stalks of host plants. Larvae are green with a white stripe, feeding on flowers and seed pods. Pupae are typically green or brown, resembling a thorn, and overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the unique mottled green and white pattern on the hindwing underside. Males are easily identified by the bright orange tips on their forewings; females lack this orange but share the hindwing pattern.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with white wings, featuring a distinctive mottled green and white pattern on the hindwing underside, providing excellent camouflage. Males also possess a prominent orange patch on the forewing tips.
