Milbert's Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis milberti)
Photo: Provincial Museum of Alberta
| Identification: This butterfly is distinguished from other Tortoiseshells by the band which fades from orange to yellow on the dorsal wing surfaces and the marginal blue spots on the upper surface of the hind wings. Life History: eggs are laid in groups on the larval host plant; larvae are gregarious feeders, and older larvae feed in folded leaf shelters. Adults can often be seen basking in sunny patches on the ground. Habitat and Range: Milbert's Tortoise Shell is found throughout Alberta and Canada, and the northeastern Rocky states. This species is uncommon on the prairies. Host Plants: caterpillars of this butterfly feed mostly on nettles but are also known to feed on willows, sunflowers and elms. Adults survive the early spring by feeding on tree sap. Flight Period: Milbert's Tortoiseshells are strong flyers and are one of the earliest to emerge in the spring (the earliest Alberta record is March 13, and may last well into October.) Similar Species: this species is so distinctive that if one gets a good look it should not be confused with any other species. |