Milbert's Tortoise Shell
Description
Wingspan 1 3/4". Wings above dark brown on basal 1/2, except for 2 reddish-orange spots separated by a black bar near front margin of fore wing; metallic blue crescentlike marks (lunules) on margins of hind wings. Wings below brownish black; basal portion darker, marbled with gray and white. Caterpillar is black above with white dots, yellowish sides, and branched spines.
Habitat
Wet meadows and swampy edges of deciduous forest.
Range
Coast to coast in Canada and the northern United States, in mountains south to West Virginia.
Food
Caterpillar feeds on nettles.
Flight
Warm winter days; spring and summer.
Other
 Like many other nymphalid caterpillars, these feed in groups, sometimes severely defoliating trees. There are often 3 generations a year.
Picture
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