Nais Metalmark
Common NameNais Metalmark
Scientific NameApodemia nais
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatArid canyons, rocky slopes, open woodlands, chaparral
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States, Northern Mexico
Host PlantsEriogonum wrightii, Eriogonum spp.
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants, primarily various species of Buckwheat, where the larvae feed before pupating.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, the striking orange and black checkered pattern across its wings, and the prominent white spots along the dark outer wing margins.
Description
A small butterfly with vibrant orange-yellow wings heavily marked with black spots and a checkered pattern, featuring dark wing margins adorned with a distinct white fringe.
