Pale-banded Crescent
Common NamePale-banded Crescent
Scientific NamePhyciodes pallescens
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Primary Colorsdark brown, pale yellow
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, washes, canyons, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States, northern Mexico
Host PlantsAsteraceae species, Aster, Machaeranthera, Haplopappus, Baccharis
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, and pupation occurs nearby. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the specific arrangement of pale yellow spots and bands on the dark brown wings, particularly the prominent pale band on the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with dark brown wings heavily marked with numerous pale yellow spots and distinct bands, especially on the hindwings.
