The Northern Metalmark is one of the rarest and most localized butterflies in eastern North America, now restricted to scattered colonies on shale outcrops in the mid-Atlantic region where its host plant, round-leaved ragwort, grows. Its wings are chestnut-brown with two metallic silver-gray bands and rusty spots. It is a small, alert butterfly that perches with wings spread flat.
Best time to see a Northern Metalmark
The best time to see a Northern Metalmark is June–July, when about 94% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 580 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Northern Metalmark? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Northern Metalmark sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Northern Metalmark?
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