Diet

• The caterpillars of Chlosyne theona feed on plants in several families.

• Eggs are laid in groups on the host plant, and the young caterpillars initially feed on the leaves.

Range

• Chlosyne theona is a widespread species ranging from Colombia north through Central America and Mexico into the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.

• It is well documented in Mexico, including Oaxaca, and occurs in the Pacific-slope region of southern Mexico.

• It occurs in the broader Zihua region, where suitable dry forest, scrub and open habitats provide appropriate conditions.

Habitat

• It inhabits subtropical scrub, dry woodland, grassland, desert foothills, canyons, limestone slopes and other relatively open habitats.

• In Mexico, it is associated with scrubby and open vegetation where its larval host plants occur.

• Adults are commonly encountered in sunny openings, along vegetation edges and around flowering plants.

Description

• A medium-sized checkerspot with a wingspan of approximately 3.2–4.4 cm.

• The upper surface is strongly patterned in black, orange and yellow, with a dark median area separating inner yellow-orange and outer orange bands.

• The hindwing underside has alternating orange and cream-coloured bands and spots outlined by black veins, producing a distinctive checked appearance.

• The caterpillar is predominantly dark or blackish, with greyish markings and numerous branched spines; the head is orange.

• The species is variable in colour and pattern across its extensive range.