California tortoiseshell


The California tortoiseshell is a butterfly of the family Nymphalidae.

Description

The wings of the California tortoiseshell have ragged edges. The upper sides of the wings are orange with black spots and a wide black margin. The undersides of the wings are a mottled dark brown. Its wingspan varies from 3.2 to 7 cm.
Caterpillars are black with white spots and hairs. Each segment of the body has seven spines.

Ecology

Larvae eat various species of Ceanothus. This butterfly is known for having irregular population explosions. Ravens commonly prey on California tortoiseshells in population explosions during outbreak years.