Milbert’s Tortoiseshell (Aglais milberti)
The Milbert’s Tortoiseshell is the sole species of the Aglais genus present in North America. There has been a controversy regarding their actual genus as some consider it to be nymphalis, with both of them being unified at one point of time. It is even said that butterflies of the aglais genus have a brighter hue.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Nymphalidae
- Genus: Aglais
- Common names: Fire-rim tortoiseshell
- Scientific Name: Aglais milberti
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larva is black with spiny projections.
Pupa
The pupa is brown with an outline of black.
Adult Butterfly
Sexual Dimorphism: Present
Color and Appearance: When opened, the upper sidewith orange bands that gets lighter and becomes yellow when it reaches the inner edge. The fore as well as hind wings have black borders while the latter may also possess small, blue spots. When closed, they are black with a brown band.
Average wingspan: 4.2 cm to 6.3 cm
Flight pattern: Fast
Eggs
The eggs are round and green in color.
Quick Facts | |
| Distribution | Throughout the western and eastern United States, and also the whole of Alaska and Canada |
| Habitat | Near wet wood lands, moist marshes and pastures |
| Lifespan adults | Approximately 10 days |
| Host plants | Lilac, thistles, goldenrod |
| Adult diet | Nectar of flowers as well as dung, plant sap and rotting fruit |
Did You Know
- They have four subspecies namely Aglais milberti milberti, Aglais milberti viola, Aglais milberti furcillata, and Aglais milberti pullum.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Nymphalidae
- Genus: Aglais
- Common names: Fire-rim tortoiseshell
- Scientific Name: Aglais milberti
