Although it is commonly called the California patch butterfly, Chlosyne californica occurs in Arizona as well.
The larvae feed on on Parish’s goldeneye or desert sunflower, Viguiera deltoidea var. parishii.
It closely resembles some of the color variations of the bordered patch butterfly, so the two may be somewhat difficult to tell apart. Some books suggest the orange-brown marginal spots are the best way to tell.
I have to admit I’m still learning the West Coast butterflies. The best way to do it is one sighting at a time, like this one.
Do you have any butterflies in your yard this week?
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