About Nymphalis californica (Boisduval, 1852)
This species is the California tortoiseshell butterfly, with the scientific name Nymphalis californica (Boisduval, 1852).
Adults have wings with ragged edges. The upper side of each wing is orange, marked with black spots and a wide black margin. The underside of the wings is mottled dark brown. The adult wingspan ranges from 3.2 to 7 cm (1+1⁄4–2+3⁄4 inches).
Caterpillars of this species are black, with white spots and hairs. Each body segment has seven spines.
In terms of ecology, larvae feed on various species of the shrub genus Ceanothus. This butterfly is well known for experiencing irregular, sudden population explosions. During these outbreak years when populations boom, ravens commonly prey on California tortoiseshells.
