Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Limenitis eulalia Doubleday, 1848, described from Mexico
Adelpha bredowii subspecies guatemalensis Carpenter & Hobby, 1944, described from Guatemala
Adelpha bredowii subspecies eulalia
Explanation of Names
There are 3 closely related populations of Sisters that have until recently been treated as subspecies of one species - Adelpha bredowii. Most now consider these to represent three distinct species, though the question is still debated:
Adelpha bredowii (not north of Mexico; sometimes spelled bredowi)
Adelpha californica
Adelpha eulalia
Identification
The Weidemeyer's Admiral - Limenitis weidemeyerii is most likely to be confused with the Arizona Sister within the United States, where the two are often found together. Weidemeyer's Admirals average smaller, have no orange near the tip of the front wings, and they are usually associated with Willows and Aspens, and range higher in elevation. They also occur (in most areas) only in one brood that peaks in late spring or early in the summer. Arizona Sisters are usually associated with Oaks, and range into drier and lower areas.
California Sister - Adelpha californica is very similar, but occurs further west (probably rarely if ever in the same areas), and differs in details of pattern, particularly in the stripes near the base of the under side of the hind wings.
There is a chance this species might be found together with Lorquin's Admiral Limenitis lorquini in Utah or Nevada. For differences between that species and the southwestern Sister's, see under the California Sister.
Range
Mostly in mountain areas, from southern Nevada and southeastern California eastward to Colorado and south through much of Mexico. Strays north and east as far as Idaho and Kansas.
Habitat
Associated with Oaks, usually Oak woodlands. Often favoring low areas such as along arroyos and canyon bottoms where there is surface water, and often patrol or perch along roads and paths that are somewhat similar in the way they cut through the woodlands.
Season
Adults mostly from about April or May until frost in probably two or three overlapping broods.
Food
Adults rarely visit flowers, more often mud, tree sap, carrion, rotting fruit, etc. Larvae use Oaks (Quercus species.
Internet References
The two sisters - an illustration of the differences between the California and Arizona Sisters
