California tortoiseshell
Nymphalis californica
The California tortoiseshell is a butterfly of the Nymphalidae family.
The California tortoiseshell is known for having population explosions which cause the butterflies to migrate to new areas. The cause of these population explosions is unknown. Their larvae eat various species of Ceanothus.
It is recognized for the top of its wings being orange with big black spots . The browns and greys of the wing underside make it resemble a dead leaf when the wings are closed. Its wingspan varies from 3.2--7 cm .
The California tortoiseshell is known for having population explosions which cause the butterflies to migrate to new areas. The cause of these population explosions is unknown. Their larvae eat various species of Ceanothus.
It is recognized for the top of its wings being orange with big black spots . The browns and greys of the wing underside make it resemble a dead leaf when the wings are closed. Its wingspan varies from 3.2--7 cm .