C. rufilabris has red genae and black cross veins. Larvae of both common species have two stripes on the head, but they are straight-sided on C. rufilabris while those of C. carnea widen towards the back of the head. Larvae appear speckled with white and dark body spots. Mated and fed females lay eggs in groups. The adult emerges in about 5 days.
Winter is spent in the cocoon or adult stage, depending on species.
Adults disperse widely after emerging before mating and laying eggs. C. rufilabris adults can be found throughout the year in central Texas, but they are most abundant in the fall. C. carnea is more abundant in the spring and in the fall their bodies become reddish-brown as they prepare to overwinter. Some species have several generations per year while others have one. Adults have chewing mouthparts.