Mylitta Crescent
Common NameMylitta Crescent
Scientific NamePhyciodes mylitta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatMeadows, stream banks, forest clearings, roadsides, often near water
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south through the western US to northern Mexico
Host PlantsCirsium (thistles)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed gregariously on thistles, overwintering as partially grown larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright orange and black checkered pattern, particularly the prominent row of black crescent-shaped spots on the hindwing margin. Can be differentiated from similar crescentspots by specific pattern details and host plant preference.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with bright orange wings heavily marked with intricate dark brown or black patterns, including a distinctive row of crescent-shaped spots along the hindwing margin.
