Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 961794

Red-spotted Purple or White Admiral
Limenitis arthemis

Observation date: April 21, 2014
Date notes: found the butterfly leaving the chrysalis today
Submitted by: Alisha726
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: It was hot and sunny out today, i found the butterfly emerging from the chrysalis because my cat had taken interest in it. The chrysalis was located on a small solar light in my front yard. The butterfly had a red liquid coming from it's rear. the redish-orangish liquid was opaque and came out in drops. Within approximately 10 minutes the drops slowly faded to a clear liquid, i noted about 4 or 5 drops. Beneath the chrysalis where i found to newly emerged butterfly i noticed a small trail of the odd colored liquid. I had to move the butterfly because my cat was trying to eat it. The body of the butterfly and the most medial portion of the wings appeared to be moist with a bluish tinge in the light. I found it strange that the butterfly's wings appeared wet. it has been about 20 minutes and the butterfly has not seemed to progress in any way. The wings are crinkled a little. The wings struggle to stand uniform. I believe it is the moisture of the wings that are causing the butterfly not to be able to fly. I have pictures of the chrysalis if they would like to be viewed. I do apologize for the poor picture quality, I took these pictures on a flip phone.
Status: Resident
Verified by: rogerdowner
Verified date: April 23, 2014
Coordinator notes: None.