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| Sleepy Orange |
Latin
Name: Eurema nicippe |
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Genus: Eurema Species: nicippe |
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Comments: |
| Much debate centers on the origin of the butterfly's common name. One interpretation points to its narrow black forewing spot, which to many observers resembles a closed eye. Nonetheless, the Sleepy Orange is far from lethargic. Adults are extremely active and have a quick, nervous flight. Another of Florida's migratory species, individuals produced late in the season move south and overwinter in reproductive diapause. Newly emerged males often gather in large numbers at mud puddles or damp ground. |
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Life
Cycle: |
Broods: |
multiple generations; adults may be found year-round; particularly numerous in late summer and fall |
Egg: |
white, laid singly on host leaves |
Larva: |
green with thin, cream lateral stripe and numerous short hairs |
Host Plants: |
various cassia species including Sicklepod Senna, Christmas Senna and Coffee Senna |
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Host
Plants: |
Host
Plants: |
various cassia species including Sicklepod Senna, Christmas Senna and Coffee Senna |
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Habitat: |
Habitat: |
open, disturbed sites including roadsides, utility easements, vacant fields, agricultural land, parks and home gardens |
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Wingspan: |
Inches: |
1.3 - 2 |
Centimeters: |
3.3 - 5.1 |
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Appearance: |
Sexes: |
similar, although females larger and less vibrant with heavier hindwing pattern |
Compare: |
Orange Sulphur has dorsal orange hindwing spot and distinct, red-rimmed ventral hindwing silver spot. |
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| Markings: |
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Above:
- bright orange with broad irregular black wing borders; forewing cell bears small, elongated black spot
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Below:
- hindwings seasonally variable; butter-yellow with brown markings in summer-form and tan to reddish brown with darker pattern elements in winter-form
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Map Legend: Resident (green) | Stray
(Red) |
