Chlosyne californica

California Patch

Introduction:

The upper side of the wings is brownish-black at the base and costal edge, with a wide yellow-orange median band and large orange submarginal spots. The underside is similar, with a red spot on the hindwing near the abdomen blending into the median band.
Life Cycle: California Patch (Chlosyne californica)

Size wingspan 1.25-2 inches (32–51 mm)
Sexual Dimorphism: false
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)

Insect Data

Names and Taxonomy

Common Names: California patch
Synonyms: Synchloe californica, Chlosyne california
Order: Lepidoptera (Butterflies and Moths)
Family: Chlosyne (Butterflies)
Genus Information: 1 species in NV, 3 in CA, 12 in US

Distribution

Distribution: CA, NV, Mexico (Baja, Sonora)
Seen: Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve
Habitat: desert washes and canyons
Food: larvae feed on Parish goldeneye (Bahiopsis parishii) and occasionally on sunflowers (Helianthus annuus), adults on flower nectar

Photographs

California Patch (Chlosyne californica)

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (June 19)

California Patch (Chlosyne californica)

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (June 19)

California Patch (Chlosyne californica)

Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (June 19)

Vocabulary Reference Material

Plants, leaf and flower anatomy is essential to properly classify

Sky Island vegetation biomes

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Get in touch

I am usually out hiking, birding or traveling but you can reach me at:

buzardweb@gmail.com