Eastern Scarlet
Common NameEastern Scarlet
Scientific NameLycaena phlaeas americana
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatMeadows, fields, open woodlands, gardens, roadsides
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host Plantssheep sorrel, common sorrel
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on sorrel host plants. Larvae are green and slug-like, pupating into camouflaged chrysalides. Overwinters as a larva or pupa.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, striking orange and dark coloration, and the presence of a small tail on the hindwings, often found in open, sunny areas.
Description
A small butterfly characterized by its bright orange hindwings and darker forewings with black markings, often displaying a small tail on the hindwing.
