Mexican Zela Metalmark
Common NameMexican Zela Metalmark
Scientific NameEmesis zela
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, canyons
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas), Mexico, Central America
Host PlantsAcacia, Mimosa, various legumes (Fabaceae)
Flight PeriodMay to November (multi-brooded)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are slug-like and often cryptically colored. Pupae are typically attached to host plants or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive reddish-brown base color with intricate dark brown and orange markings, particularly the orange patches on the hindwings. Its small size and darting flight are also characteristic.
Description
A small butterfly with reddish-brown wings, featuring a complex pattern of darker brown bands and spots, with prominent orange patches on the hindwings.
