Wingspan: 2.8-3.5 cm.

Flight time: Apparently three broods; the first emerging late-April to early-June; the second from late June to mid-July; and the third during August. A partial fourth brood emerges some years in late September.

Status: Breeding resident.

Distinguishing features: The upper wing surface is dark, with a dark band, an orange band with spots, and a tan band moving from the margin to the body. The hindwing below is highly figured with a central row of white arrowheads.

Distribution and habitat: Of regular occurrence throughout the southern three-fourths of the state, however its frequency appears higher towards the west, with populations becoming increasing uncommon towards the east. They occur in a wide variety of open habitats including old fields, roadsides, pastures, vacant lots, and native prairie.

Natural History: Larvae consume carious members of the aster family, including sunflowers. It over-winters as half-grown larvae. Pupation lasts six days in the July brood. This very distinctive species may be expanding its range in Iowa as it did in Illinois (Irwin and Downey, 1973).