The large Goatweed Leafwing blends in seamlessly among tree trunks, leaf litter and wood piles when its wings are closed, striking a keen resemblance to a dried out leaf. When in flight, the tops of the wings on this fast flyer flash bright orange. It is best admired when resting with wings open flat, but it is rarely so obliging. The edges of the wings are not round like other butterflies. Instead, they seem almost gracefully carved, with a short tail on each hindwing.
The gray-green caterpillar for this butterfly feeds on goatweed and crotons, like hogwort and silver croton. Two broods per year can be produced with more possible in the southern part of its range. Look for adults in open woods and near streams. Adults drink tree sap, and the liquid from rotting fruit and fresh dung.
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General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Butterfly and Moth Anatomy
1
Antennae: Butterflies and Moths have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and proboscis.
3
Thorax: Home to the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Abdomen: Contains vital internal organs such as the heart(s) and reproduction facilities.
5
Forewing: The upper, forward wing pair used for flying.
6
Hindwing: The lower, rearward wing pair used for flying.
NOTE: Butterflies and Moths are part of the Lepidopteran order as they share many similarities.
Colors: brown; tan; orange
