Observation date: June 18, 2011
Submitted by: Alison Davies
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This fascinating caterpillar was feeding on a red willow leaf when I spotted it during my stroll around a pond in a nearby park. It was 6:30 in the evening under clear skies with a gentle breeze blowing, and the temperature was between 70-75 degrees.
Status: Resident
Verified by: Ken Davenport
Verified date: June 27, 2011
Coordinator notes: The only well known member of the genus Limenitis in the Escondido area is Lorquin's Admiral (Limenitis lorquini) though the larvae of the Viceroy and Red-Spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis arizonensis) are very similar. Viceroy and Red-Spotted Purples may be possible in San Diego County and possible caterpillars should be reared through on the willow hostplants and adult photos checked by us if there is a question. There are no current records for Limenitis arthemis in California but they get right to the Colorado River border of the state on the Arizona side. Thanks for sharing the hostplant or source of the caterpillar, that was very important.
