Description: 14-17 mm. Dorsally, this species is dark brown with orange markings. It lacks yellow forewing band of Phyciodes phaon. Ventral side is more brown than P. phaon. 

 

Habitat and Distribution: This species is found throughout most of the United States and into Mexico. It can be common in Florida and in the Keys in disturbed weedy fields and vacant lots and on roadsides. 

 

Host Plant: Plants in the Aster family (Asteraceae)

 

Natural History: This is a common butterfly and is easily confused with P. phaon.