Ruddy Daggerwing
Common NameRuddy Daggerwing
Scientific NameMarpesia petreus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCyrestinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsFicus spp. (figs)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in warmer temperate zones
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny, typically dark with lighter markings, and feed on fig leaves. The chrysalis is often camouflaged, resembling a dead leaf or twig.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange wings with bold black parallel lines and the characteristic long, pointed tails (daggers) on the hindwings, giving it a unique, angular wing shape.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange wings prominently marked with parallel black stripes along the veins, and distinctive long, pointed 'dagger' tails on the hindwings.
