Southern Dogface Butterfly
Zerene cesonia
The Southern Dogface can be identified by the upperside forewings that have a yellow “dog’s head” surrounded by black. “Eye” does not touch black border. However, since they close their wings when not in flight, it is difficult to identify this mark!
Butterfly Size: 2 1/8 – 3 inches
Habitats: Dry, open areas such as short-grass prairie hills, scrub oak groves, open woodland, washes, road edges.
Plants for the Southern Dogface Butterfly
HOST PLANTS
Small-leaved plants in the pea family (Fabaceae) including:
- alfalfa
- prairie clovers
- indigo (Dalea)
- clover (Trifolium) species
FOOD PLANTS
Nectar from flowers including:
- alfalfa
- coreopsis
- houstonia
- verbena
We Need Your Support
We need your help to continue to protect, promote, and celebrate the resources, people, and culture of the Lower Delta.
WHAT WE DO
Mississippi’s Lower Delta Partnership promotes and enhances the economic and environmental health of Mississippi’s Lower Delta.
We provide educational workshops and cultural programs; community and youth activities; encourage heritage, cultural, and nature tourism in our region; and act as an advocate for the South Delta.
