Pale Crescent
Common NamePale Crescent
Scientific NamePhyciodes pallida
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open woodlands, sagebrush steppe
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host PlantsSymphyotrichum species, Asteraceae
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly or in small clusters on host plants. Larvae feed on leaves, often gregariously when young, and overwinter as larvae before pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive orange and black checkered pattern on the upperside. Key identification features, especially for distinguishing from similar crescents, are often found on the underside hindwing, which typically shows pale crescent-shaped spots.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with an orange upperside heavily patterned with intricate black lines and spots, creating a checkered appearance. The underside of the hindwing typically features pale crescent-shaped markings.
