Northern Crescent
Phyciodes cocyta (Cramer, 1777)
Family: Nymphalidae
Status: Rare resident
NENHP Rank: S1S2, Tier 2
Range: This Crescent is primarily northern in distribution although it also inhabits higher elevations in the western United States. It can be found from northern British Columbia east through southern Canada to the Atlantic seaboard. In the eastern United States it extends southwards through New York, Michigan, Minnesota, and North Dakota. In the western United States it can be found at higher elevations south into central New Mexico. In Nebraska it has been found in some of our northern most counties in the western half of the state (Sioux, Sheridan and Cherry Counties).
Larval Hostplant(s): Asters, of which Smooth Blue Aster (Aster laevis) is mentioned in particular.
Broods/Flight Times: Morrone (2002) reports that in South Dakota the one flight normally occurs from mid-June to mid-July.
Overwintering: As partially grown caterpillar.
Habitat: It should be sought along stream sides and wet areas in the northwestern portion of the state.
Avg. Wingspan: 1 1/4 – 1 7/8 inches
Found at:
Similar Species: Other Crescents.
Notes:
Northern Crescent, Matthew Brust
