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Common Name:  Brush-footed Butterflies

Description:  The brush footed butterflies are comprised of a large group of well known butterflies; these include the mourning cloak, crescent-spots, and angel wings. This family is easily recognized by reduced front legs that lack claws. The front legs, due to their length, are not used for walking. Unique to this family, the radius in the front wing is 5-branched.

Spot ID Key Characters:

  1. Front legs reduced in size and lacking claws; usually held against the body and not used for walking (ventral view)

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Order:  Lepidoptera