While walking through the scenic Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I was lucky to spot a still and sunlit Pearl Crescent butterfly. Perched gracefully on a blade of green grass, this striking little insect opened its wings wide, offering a perfect view of its bold patterns.
Identifying the Pearl Crescent Butterfly
The Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos) is easy to recognize once you know what to look for. It has bright orange wings bordered in black, with detailed black lines and spots across the top side. Its name comes from the underside of the hindwing, which features a pale crescent mark on a dark background. This subtle but unique pattern helps distinguish it from similar species.
In addition, the butterfly’s wingspan usually ranges from 1 to 1.5 inches, making it a smaller member of the brush-footed butterfly family.
Where Pearl Crescents Are Found
Pearl Crescents are widespread across the United States, especially in states like Oklahoma and Arkansas. They thrive in open areas such as:
- Meadows
- Fields
- Roadsides
- Wildlife refuges like Sequoyah
These butterflies are quite active from spring through fall and are often seen basking with wings open, just as this one was.
A Closer Look at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge
Located in eastern Oklahoma, the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge offers diverse habitats for a wide range of wildlife. It’s a fantastic place for butterfly watching, bird photography, and peaceful nature walks.
If you’re interested in seeing more butterflies from this location, you can check out another photo I took at the refuge here.
Final Thoughts
The Pearl Crescent might be a common butterfly, but its intricate patterns and cooperative behavior make it a favorite among nature photographers. Keep an eye out on your next outdoor adventure, you just might catch one basking in the sun.