Elf Butterfly
Common NameElf Butterfly
Scientific NameEmesis emesia
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, scrubland
Geographic RangeSouthern Texas, Mexico, Central America, northern South America
Host PlantsAcacia, Mimosa, Byrsonima
Flight PeriodMay to November (in northern range), year-round (in tropical regions)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on leaves, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsLook for its small size and distinctive black and vivid orange pattern, especially the irregular bands on both forewings and hindwings. Often seen perching with wings open.
Description
A small butterfly with black wings boldly marked with striking, irregular bright orange bands and spots, particularly on the forewings.
