Pearl Crescent

Description:

Small, orange and black butterfly. Fairly common in Eastern North America but can be found in about 3/4 of North America. This butterfly was "puddling" in the mud next to a lake. Butterflies may be seen feeding at mud puddles, on feces and even on other animals tears to gather minerals and salts that they do not acquire from nectar.

Habitat:

Temperate woodland bordering a freshwater lake. Rockwood Park, Virginia.

Notes:

Several species of Crescents look quite similar and can be difficult to tell apart. Images of both the inside and outside of the wings are very helpful.