Community identification
Painted Lady Butterfly
Vanessa cardui
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Nymphalidae
- Size
- Wingspan typically ranges from 5 to 9 cm (2 to 3.5 inches).
Natural Habitat
Global distribution across various habitats including meadows, gardens, disturbed lands, and open fields.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on over 100 species of plants, notably thistles, mallows, and hollyhock; adults feed on flower nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Known for highly erratic, multi-generational migrations that can cover thousands of miles; they undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Generally beneficial as pollinators for numerous flowering plants; no significant risks to humans or substantial crop damage.