Arizona's WildLife
"Where the Wild Things Roam"
Arizona Sister Butterfly
Adelpha eulalia
Look near wildflowers and fruiting shrubs
The Arizona sister (Adelpha eulalia) is a medium-sized butterfly native to Arizona, easily recognized by its striking orange and black wings with prominent white bands. This species is commonly found in oak woodlands, riparian areas, and forest edges, where it feeds on nectar from flowers as well as rotting fruit and tree sap. Arizona sisters are agile fliers and often perch in sunny clearings, displaying their colorful wings to deter predators and attract mates. As pollinators and part of the food web, they play an important ecological role while adding visual vibrancy to Arizona’s natural landscapes.
Insect
Identification & Behavior
Key Features: Orange wings with black and white markings
Size: 2–3 in wingspan
Behavior: Fast flier, often seen in groups
Diet: Nectar, fruit
Activity Pattern: Diurnal
Habitat & Distribution
Found in southeastern Arizona oak woodlands and riparian areas, particularly near Chiricahua and Huachuca Mountains. Present in Coronado National Forest.
Elevation Range: 5,000–8,500 ft
Seasonal Presence: Spring–Fall
Risks & Management
Do not handle; delicate wings
Fun Fact: Mimics unpalatable species for protection
