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.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
* MAP NOTES: The territorial heat map above showcases (in red) the states and territories of North America where the Goatweed Leafwing Butterfly may be found (but is not limited to). This sort of data is useful when attempting to see concentrations of particular species across the continent as well as revealing possible migratory patterns over a species' given lifespan. Some insects are naturally confined by environment, weather, mating habits, food resources and the like while others see widespread expansion across most, or all, of North America. States/Territories shown above are a general indicator of areas inhabited by the Goatweed Leafwing Butterfly. Insects generally go where they please, typically driven by diet, environmental changes, and / or mating habits.
Colors: brown; tan; orange 
