Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Painted Lady Butterflies
Similar Species: Vanessa annabella (West Coast Lady) and to a lesser extent Vanessa virginiensis (the Painted Beauty or Virginia Lady). See remarks under these species for distinguishing characteristics.
Habitats, Behavior: Found in almost any sunny and open spot during years of abundance.
Distribution: Probably the world's most widely distributed butterfly, the Painted Lady is often a common sight in Orange County, although in some years it is almost absent. Usually seen at lower elevations, it occurs at all elevations in the county during years of migration.
Flight Period: Orange County records extend from January to October, although the species conceivably may be found throughout the year. Multiple brooded.
