Lorquin's Admiral

The Lorquin's Admiral (Limenitis lorquini) is a large West Coast Limentis species, with a physical resemblance to the California Sister. Both species share some habitats, the Lorquin's habitat is more extensive, spanning coastal areas, stream sides, and on flowers in both valley and mountain terrain.

The easiest way to identify the Lorquin's Admiral, compared to the California Sister, is by checking the size of the mustard color patch on the end of the wing. It is normally very thin. They are one of the season's first butterflies, and individuals can usually be found from spring through late summer, usually perching in a sunny area, especially on tree branches and brush.

The Lorquin's Admiral larva are usually yellow along with a patch of white on its back. They are laid near or on the tips of leaves. Common trees that the larva feed on include willow (Salix), poplar, wild cherry (Prunus), cottonwood (Populus), and an assortment of orchard trees including that of cherry, apple, and plum. The Lorquin's Admiral usually flies around April to October, though it depends on the region. Butterflies found in northern areas tend to fly once (usually between June and August) whereas southern butterflies (mainly in California) tend to fly multiple times.

Posted in: L,Lorquin's Admiral,Nymphalidae