California Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis californica) 5 February 2018, Gazos Creek, San Mateo County, CA Photos © 2018 Joseph Morlan
California Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis californica)

California Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis californica)
I believe this is probably a female based on its less contrasting underwing pattern. With wings folded, they look like a dead leaf. This is an eruptive species. We have two seasons: worn hibernators like these from late January to April and fresh emerging in late May to June. Erratic migrations occur in the Fall along the northern California coast. Canon PowerShot SX50 HS.
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