Description
The Northern Crescent (Phyciodes cocyta) is a small butterfly with orange wings marked by intricate black patterns and dark borders, typically found in meadows, roadsides, and open woodlands across northern North America.
Range
It is found throughout the state.
Similar Species
Pearl Crescent and Tawny Crescent are very similar and variable. Many times, they cannot be told apart. Generally, Northerns have more open orange than the others, and have a darker crescent mark on the hindwing.
Host Plants
Larvae feed on leaves of asters (Aster spp.).
Flight
Overwinters in chrysalis, and can emerge as early as May and flies until early August.