Species Page: California Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis californica)

California Tortoiseshell

Nymphalis californica (Boisduval, 1852)

Family: Nymphalidae

Status: Rare stray

Range: This butterfly resides in the United State west of the Rocky Mountains with rare strays found east of there.

Larval Hostplant(s): Various Ceanothus species

NENHP Ranking: Not listed

Broods/Flight Times: A single brood which overwinters.

Habitat: Strays may occur anywhere.

Avg. Wingspan: 1 1/4 – 2 3/4 inches

Found at:

Overwintering: As adults

Similar Species: None

Notes:

Nymphalis californica, Sioux Co., photo by Colin Croft
Nymphalis californica, Sioux Co., photo by Colin Croft
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