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Wisconsin Native Caterpillars

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) caterpillar

Common Wood-Nymph Caterpillar

Genus-Species: Cercyonis pegala

Description: The caterpillar is green or yellowish green with several somewhat paler lateral stripes. The caterpillar is covered with long, fine, pale hairs and has a green, rounded head without horns.

Chrysalis: Yellow-green with white on upper surface and along the edge of the wing case. Often hangs from a grass stem.

Host Plants: Grasses including Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), Grove Bluegrass (Poa alsodes), Fowl Bluegrass (Poa palustris), and Woodland Bluegrass (Poa saltuensis)

Habitat: Grasslands and open fields near woodlands. Prairie restorations are often hot spots for this species.

Comments: This is by far the most common butterfly in the state on a regular basis.

Adult Common Wood-Nymph Butterfly Profile
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