These butterflies inhabit a variety of habitats, including deserts, warm or arid lowlands, and roadsides.
The Funereal Duskywing butterfly (Erynnis funeralis) is commonly found in Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. However, they can also be found as far north as northern Illinois, northeast Nebraska, Alabama, and central Colorado on occasion. Additionally, sightings have been reported in southern Nevada and central California. This species of butterfly can be found as far south as Argentina. source
These winged beauties are the ultimate globetrotters, showing off their wings in diverse gardens like valleys, deserts, and even roadways. Their resilience is remarkable too, they use desert ironwood, clover, and vetch.
The adult butterfly has a wingspan of about 1.5 inches and is characterized by its dark brown wings with subtle white markings. Mama lays her precious eggs one by one, snuggled safely underneath lush host plant leaves. Freshly hatched, these little caterpillar cuties nibble on the leaves and make cozy homes inside rolled or tied leaves. There are 3 broods, from March through December. The last batch of wiggly caterpillars hit the snooze button until it’s warm enough, then the cycle begins again.
Grown-up butterflies are like bees, buzzing from one flower to another, pollinating any flower they see. What a sweet feast of nectar. The Funereal Duskywing butterfly (Erynnis funeralis) species is an important pollinator and plays a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of its ecosystem.