Asterocampa clyton
Scientific NameAsterocampa clyton
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)50-75
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, especially near rivers and streams, often associated with hackberry trees (Celtis spp.) which are their host plants.
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada (Ontario) south through the eastern United States to Florida and Texas, extending west to the Great Plains.
Conservation StatusNot evaluated by IUCN; generally common and widespread throughout its range, considered secure.
Description
The Tawny Emperor is a medium-sized butterfly characterized by its tawny orange to dark brown upper wings. The forewings typically have a few small, dark spots, sometimes with a faint row of pale spots, while the hindwings are generally unmarked or have a subtle row of postmedian spots. The underside is mottled brown and gray, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Its antennae tips are distinctively forked. Larvae feed exclusively on hackberry trees.
