Variable Crescent
Common NameVariable Crescent
Scientific NameDryas iulia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsorange, black, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsPassiflora spp. (passionflower)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; summer and fall in temperate areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on passionflower vines. Larvae are orange with black spines and feed on the host plant. Pupae are cryptic, resembling dried leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsUpperside is bright orange with distinctive black markings and yellow spots; the underside is mottled brown and silver, often with a prominent silver spot on the hindwing.
Description
A medium to large butterfly with vibrant orange wings, characterized by broad black bands on the forewings and black borders adorned with a series of yellow-orange spots on both forewings and hindwings.
