Palmer's Metalmark
Common NamePalmer's Metalmark
Scientific NameApodemia palmerii
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, orange
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, desert washes, canyons, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado) and northern Mexico
Host PlantsEriogonum wrightii, Eriogonum inflatum, various Eriogonum species
Flight PeriodApril to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or stems. Larvae feed on buckwheat species, and pupation occurs near the ground. It typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, dark wings with prominent white spots, and the presence of orange-brown markings. The antennae are distinctly ringed, and it often exhibits a characteristic jerky flight close to the ground.
Description
A small butterfly with dark brown to black wings heavily marked with numerous bright white spots and some orange-brown patches, particularly on the hindwings. Its antennae are slender and ringed with white.
