Vanessa cardui

Vanessa cardui is also known as the painted lady butterfly. It is a common species found throughout the world. The caterpillars feed on mallows, thistles, and many other hosts. The female typically lays her eggs on host plants that provide the most readily available adult food source, regardless of offspring mortality. Members of this genus are routinely used for classroom education and released during celebratory events.  

Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Nymphalidae
Species: Vanessa cardui

Photograph: © 2005 RKD Peterson
Date of Photograph: 30 July 2005
Location: Montana, Gallatin Co. (45^o43'41" N 111^o08'11" W)

Vanessa cardui © 2005 RKD Peterson

Vanessa cardui chrysalis © 2005 RKD Peterson