Orange-patched Crescent
Common NameOrange-patched Crescent
Scientific NameEresia clio
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Argentina)
Host PlantsRuellia, Justicia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, black with yellow markings, and feed gregariously. Pupae are typically cryptic, often green or brown.
Identification TipsIdentified by the distinct pattern of bright orange patches on a black background, particularly the prominent orange band on the hindwings and the scattered orange spots on the forewings. The underside often mirrors the upperside pattern but is duller.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with black wings heavily marked with bright orange patches on the forewings and a broad orange band across the hindwings.
