The Pearl Crescent butterfly is a small to medium-sized butterfly with wingspan ranging from 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm).
The wings are primarily orange with black markings and a row of pearl-like spots along the outer edges of the hindwings, hence the name “Pearl Crescent.”
The underside of the wings is lighter in color with intricate patterns that provide camouflage when resting.
Males and females are similar in appearance, but females tend to have slightly larger wingspans.
Known Range:
Found throughout much of North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico.
Habitat includes open areas such as fields, meadows, prairies, and disturbed areas.
Diet:
Larvae (caterpillars) feed primarily on various species of Asteraceae, including asters and daisies.
Adults feed on nectar from a wide range of flowering plants, including milkweeds, thistles, and goldenrods.
Breeding and Lifecycle:
Female Pearl Crescent butterflies lay their eggs singly on the leaves of host plants.
The caterpillars hatch from the eggs and feed on the host plants.
The caterpillars undergo several molts before pupating.
Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
The adult butterfly emerges from the pupa after a few weeks, completing the lifecycle.