Phoebis virgo
Common NamePhoebis virgo
Scientific NamePhoebis virgo
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyColiadinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorspale yellow, brown, grey
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, clearings, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil)
Host PlantsSenna spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae typically feed on plants in the pea family (Fabaceae).
Identification TipsDistinguished by the specific pattern of brownish-grey mottling on the pale yellow underside and the somewhat angled hindwing shape, which helps it blend into its environment.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with pale yellow to cream undersides, heavily mottled with irregular brownish-grey scales, giving it a cryptic appearance. The hindwings have a slightly angled or pointed shape.
