Mylitta Crescent
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The top picture shows the species enlarged by a factor of two in order to highlight the predominant orange wing pattern.
The lack of a white or cream color block pattern on the wings gives it more of a Fritillary than a Crescent look. However, the underside of the wing lacks the large white spot patterns characteristic of Fritillaries.
Mylitta Crescents are common West Coast species, found at different elevations, in both fields and residential settings.
They tend to patrol within the confines of a small territory throughout the day. Early morning and late afternoon are usually the best times to find them settled enough for a picture.
The caterpillars feed on plants in the thistle family.
© 2003-2008 Patricia A. Michaels