California tortoiseshell
The wings of the California tortoiseshell have ragged edges. The upper sides of the wings are orange with black spots and a wide black margin. The undersides of the wings are a mottled dark brown. Its wingspan varies from 3.2 to 7 cm (1+1⁄4–2+3⁄4 inches).[1][2]
Caterpillars are black with white spots and hairs. Each segment of the body has seven spines. They eat various species of Ceanothus.[1]
This butterfly is known for having irregular population explosions.[1] Ravens commonly prey on California tortoiseshells in population explosions during outbreak years. [3]
