Phaon Crescent

This brush-footed butterfly is a common crescent that frequents moist open areas across the south. It resembles the Pearl Crescent that is found in the same areas, but differs by the more checkered fringe on the wings. Forewing is dark orange and black with a pale cream median band. It has a thin body with no tails.

It is found from coastal North Carolina through the southern parts of the Gulf states to southern Texas, and sometimes westward to southern California. Also inhabits Guatemala north through Cuba and Mexico. It is an occasional visitor to eastern Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. It tends to prefer roadsides, dunes and areas with minimal vegetation.

A familiar resident in many home environments and backyards is a small orange and brown butterfly. Many look alike and are hard to identify … but the “Crescents” are fun to have around and watch! The Phyciodes family consists of a large number of these small butterflies. Their markings vary, but most are orange and brown, with various white spots and streaks.

Phaon Crescent