Kinzua Critters

Butterflies & Moths

Red-spotted Purple

(Limenitis arthemis)

Red-spotted Purple

Species Description

**Description:** An iridescent blue-black forest butterfly with tiny orange spots on the wing tips.
**Size:** Wingspan of 3 to 3.5 inches.
**Sexual Dimorphism:** Females are generally larger than males.
**Behavior:** A Batesian mimic of the poisonous Pipevine Swallowtail. Often seen on damp ground (puddling) or perched on low branches.
**Habitat:** Shaded hiking trails and forest interiors near Wild Cherry and Aspen trees.