Identification
Below: two large eyespots, considerably larger than those of Painted Lady. Compare, on the left, American Lady, Vanessa virginensis, and on the right, Painted Lady (Cosmopolitan), Vanessa cardui:
Above: If present (it isn't always), a white dot in the orange of the forewing distinguishes this from Painted Lady. See this photo for a detailed comparison of the upperwing surfaces:
Larvae are variable: greenish yellow with black bands to black with cream bands, numerous red-based branches spines; two prominient white spots on each segment.
(1)Food
Larvae feed on Cudweeds and Everlastings.
Internet References
The Vanessa Migration Project. Help contribute to scientific knowledge about these butterflies.
