Asterocampa clyton

The Tawny Emperor (Asterocampa clyton) is a species of brush-footed butterfly. It is native to North America, especially the eastern half from Canada to northern Mexico.

The upper side is mostly dark brown. The forewing is an orange-brown color with pale orange-yellow spots. The underside is mainly gray-brown with the forewing having some black and pale yellowish markings. The wingspan measures 2 to 2.6 inches.

This butterfly may be seen flying near houses, gravel driveways, near water, muddy places, gardens, and woodlands. Its only host plant is hackberry trees. The adult feeds on carrion, plant sap, and dung, and rarely land on flowers.

The female lays clusters of green eggs. The larva is green with yellow, white, or greenish stripes.

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