PAINTED LADY

Vanessa cardui

A widespread species that is expected to occur throughout both Alabama and Mississippi.  Typically scarce in the southeast but in some years can be quite abundant.  Lower surface of hindwing has a row of four small eyespots.  The upper surface of the hindwing has a row of four submarginal spots clearly separated.  The forewing has heavy black mark that is not broken at center.  Similar species: American Lady

Adult - ventral

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Adult - dorsal

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Caterpillar

Chrysalis

Chrysalis

Adult - recently eclosed