30 Butterfly Species in Arizona

As a nature enthusiast, I find myself fascinated by the diverse wildlife that inhabit our planet.

One of the most beautiful creatures that grace Arizona’s landscape is the butterfly. With over 30 species that call Arizona home, each butterfly is unique in appearance and behavior.

From the Anise Swallowtail to the Arizona Powdered Skipper, these delicate creatures serve as a visual reminder of nature’s intricacies. Join me as we explore 30 of the butterfly species found in Arizona.

Anise Swallowtail (Papilio zelicaon)

The Anise Swallowtail is one of the most commonly found butterfly species in Arizona.

• Habitat: Anise Swallowtail butterflies can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, deserts, and gardens.
• Appearance: The Anise Swallowtail butterfly has a black body with bright yellow spots on its wings.
• Size: This species can range in wingspan from 2.5 to 4 inches.
• Diet: The Anise Swallowtail’s diet consists primarily of nectar from a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, asters, and goldenrods.
• Reproduction: Females will lay their eggs on host plants, which include members of the carrot family (Apiaceae), such as fennel, dill, and parsley.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of an Anise Swallowtail butterfly is typically only a few weeks to a month.
• Host Plants: Anise Swallowtail caterpillars feed on various plants, including sweet fennel, anise, and dill.

The Anise Swallowtail is a stunning and important species in the Arizona butterfly community, and can be found in a variety of different habitats throughout the state.

Keep an eye out for this butterfly the next time you’re outside!

Two-tailed Swallowtail (Papilio multicaudata)

The Two-tailed Swallowtail is another stunning butterfly species that can be found in Arizona.

• Habitat: Two-tailed Swallowtail butterflies can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, arid foothills, and canyons.
• Appearance: The Two-tailed Swallowtail is unmistakeable, with its striking black and yellow striped wings, and two long “tails” at the bottom edge of each hindwing.
• Size: This species has a wingspan that varies from 3 to 5.5 inches.
• Diet: The Two-tailed Swallowtail’s diet consists primarily of nectar from a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, dogbane, and thistle.
• Reproduction: Females will lay their eggs on host plants, which include members of the citrus family, such as lemon and orange trees.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Two-tailed Swallowtail butterfly is typically between two and three weeks.
• Host Plants: Two-tailed Swallowtail caterpillars feed on various plants, including members of the citrus family, such as lemon and orange trees.

The Two-tailed Swallowtail is a stunning butterfly species that is unique in its appearance and can be found in a variety of desert habitats throughout Arizona.

Western Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio rutulus)

The Western Tiger Swallowtail is a large and striking butterfly species that can be found in Arizona.

• Habitat: Western Tiger Swallowtails can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, canyons, and parks.
• Appearance: The Western Tiger Swallowtail has large, striking yellow wings with black stripes, and blue and orange spots near the tails of its hindwings.
• Size: This species has a wingspan that can range from 3 to 5 inches.
• Diet: Adult Western Tiger Swallowtails feed primarily on nectar, including from flowers like dogbane and milkweeds, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various trees and shrubs such as cottonwood and willow.
• Reproduction: Females will lay their eggs on host plants, which include various trees and shrubs like cottonwood and alder.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly is typically between one to two months.
• Host Plants: Western Tiger Swallowtail caterpillars feed on leaves of cottonwood, willow, alder, and other trees and shrubs.

The Western Tiger Swallowtail is a beautiful and impressive species that can be found in various habitats throughout Arizona.

Its striking yellow and black wings make it easy to spot while searching for butterflies in the state’s parks and woodlands.

Observe the Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly feeding on nectar in the wild or watch its life cycle unfold by checking out the caterpillars in nearby trees and shrubs.

Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor)

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a unique and beautiful butterfly species that can be found in Arizona.

• Habitat: Pipevine Swallowtails can be found in various habitats, but typically reside in forested areas or near streams and rivers.
• Appearance: The Pipevine Swallowtail has distinctive iridescent blue wings with black outlines.
• Size: This species has a wingspan that ranges from 2.5 to 4 inches.
• Diet: Adult Pipevine Swallowtails feed on the nectar of various flowers, including milkweed and thistle. Caterpillars feed on the leaves of the pipevine plant.
• Reproduction: Females will lay their eggs on host plants, which exclusively include various species of pipevine plants.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly is typically only a few weeks.
• Host Plants: Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillars feed exclusively on the leaves of the pipevine plant.

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a unique and beautiful species that can be found in various habitats throughout Arizona.

Its iridescent blue wings make it stand out among other butterfly species in the state.

If you’re interested in observing this species, it’s important to find areas where pipevine plants grow, as this is the only type of plant that Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillars and eggs will survive on.

Keep an eye out for this stunning butterfly the next time you’re hiking in Arizona’s forests or near rivers!

Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)

The Black Swallowtail is a common sight in Arizona and its name comes from the bird-like tail on its hind wings.

• Habitat: Found in open fields, woodlands, gardens and parks.
• Appearance: The wings of males are mostly black with some yellow markings while females have more white and blue markings on their wings.
• Size: Adult Black Swallowtails have a wingspan of about 3 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars feed on plants in the carrot family such as dill, parsley, and fennel while adults drink nectar from a variety of flowers including milkweed and thistle.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the underside of host plant leaves and the eggs take around a week to hatch. The caterpillars then feed for about two weeks before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: The Black Swallowtail pupates for around 10-14 days followed by 14-28 days as an adult.
• Host Plants: The Black Swallowtail lays eggs on plants in the carrot family such as dill, parsley, and fennel.

The Black Swallowtail is a beautiful butterfly species that’s attractive to both bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

With its distinctive markings and interesting life cycle, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for when exploring the great outdoors of Arizona.

Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)

The Giant Swallowtail is the largest butterfly species found in Arizona, with a wingspan ranging from 4 to 6 inches.

• Habitat: Found in open woodlands, fields, and gardens near citrus trees.
• Appearance: The wings of the Giant Swallowtail are black with striking yellow markings and its hind wings have a tail-like extension with small blue and orange spots.
• Size: Adult Giant Swallowtails can have a wingspan that ranges from 4 to 6 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of the Giant Swallowtail feed on the leaves of citrus trees, while adults drink the nectar from a variety of flowers including milkweed and thistle.
• Reproduction: The female of this species will lay a single egg at a time on the leaves of citrus trees, such as oranges and lemons. The eggs hatch in about a week and the caterpillars feed for several weeks before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: The Giant Swallowtail pupates for around 10-12 days followed by 7-12 days as an adult.
• Host Plants: Citrus trees and prickly ash.

The Giant Swallowtail is an impressive and striking butterfly species that is easily recognized by its large size and bold markings.

Keep an eye out for this species when visiting citrus groves, gardens, or open woodlands in Arizona.

Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

The Monarch Butterfly, known for its striking orange and black wings, is one of the most well-known butterfly species in the world.

• Habitat: Found in open fields, meadows, gardens, and parks.
• Appearance: The wings of the Monarch are orange and black with white spots on the outer edges. Both males and females have a similar appearance, but males have a small black spot on their hind wings.
• Size: Adult Monarchs have a wingspan of about 3.5 to 4 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed, while adults drink nectar from a variety of flowers including milkweed, thistle, and goldenrod.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on milkweed leaves and the eggs take around a week to hatch. The caterpillars then feed for around two weeks before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: The Monarch pupates for around 9-15 days followed by 2-6 weeks as an adult.
• Host Plants: Milkweed.

The Monarch Butterfly is renowned for its long-distance migration, where populations from Arizona and other parts of North America travel to Mexico in the winter.

In Arizona, Monarchs can be spotted in open fields, meadows, gardens, and parks, particularly where milkweed is present.

Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippus)

The Queen Butterfly is a common sight in Arizona due to the state’s warm climate and abundance of nectar sources.

• Habitat: Open areas, fields, gardens, and parks across the southern United States, including Arizona.
• Appearance: Bright orange wings with black veins and white spots. Females usually have more spots than males.
• Size: Wingspan of 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from flowers, including milkweeds, thistles, and sunflowers.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on milkweed plants. Caterpillars feed on the milkweed leaves, and chrysalises form on the plants.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Milkweed plants serve as the primary host plant for caterpillars.

These butterflies are sexually dimorphic, with females having more spots on their wings than males. They can often be found feeding on milkweeds, which serve as both their primary host plant and a nectar source.

Females lay eggs on milkweed plants, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises.

After several weeks, adults emerge and begin feeding on nectar once again.

The Queen Butterfly’s bright orange wings with black veins and white spots make it a standout species, easily recognizable in fields, parks, and gardens across Arizona.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

Also known as the thistle butterfly, the Painted Lady is a widespread species found in a variety of habitats in Arizona.

• Habitat: Diverse habitats, including desert, grasslands, and urban areas in Arizona.
• Appearance: Orange and black wings with distinct black and white eye spots.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 2 to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers, including thistles and sunflowers.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on host plants, including thistles and mallows, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Thistles and mallows serve as primary host plants for Painted Lady caterpillars.

With orange and black wings and distinctive eye spots, it is easy to spot this species in fields, gardens, and urban areas throughout the state.

Females lay eggs on thistles or mallows, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises. Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including thistles and sunflowers.

With a wingspan of 2 to 2.5 inches, the Painted Lady is a medium-sized butterfly that can be seen in large numbers during migration events.

While the Painted Lady may not be as large or colorful as some of the other species found in Arizona, its distinctive coloring and widespread distribution make it a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

The Red Admiral is a beautiful and striking butterfly species found in Arizona’s open wooded areas, gardens, and parks.

• Habitat: Open wooded areas, gardens, and parks across Arizona.
• Appearance: Dark wings with red-orange bands and white spots on the tips.
• Size: Wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from flowers, including milkweed and thistle.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on host plants, including nettles, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Nettles serve as the primary host plant for Red Admiral caterpillars.

With dark wings and bright red-orange bands and white spots on the tips of the wing feathers, this species is a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts.

Females lay eggs on host plants like nettles, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises.

Adults feed on nectar from flowers, including milkweed and thistle. The Red Admiral’s wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches, making it one of the larger butterfly species found in Arizona.

While the Red Admiral may not be as common as some of the other butterfly species found in Arizona, its distinctive coloring and striking appearance make it a must-see for anyone interested in butterfly watching.

With the right habitat and host plants, dedicated enthusiasts can spot Red Admirals flying and feeding in parks and gardens throughout the state.

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

The Mourning Cloak is a large butterfly species found in Arizona’s open woodlands, fields, and gardens.

• Habitat: Open woodlands, fields, and gardens across Arizona.
• Appearance: Dark brown wings with a row of blue spots and a ragged yellow border.
• Size: Large wingspan of 2.5 to 4 inches.
• Diet: Tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on host plants, including willows and cottonwoods, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 11 months.
• Host Plants: Willows and cottonwoods serve as the primary host plants for Mourning Cloak caterpillars.

With dark brown wings and a row of blue spots and a ragged yellow border, this species is easily recognizable.

Females lay eggs on host plants like willows and cottonwoods, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises. Adults typically feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar.

With a wingspan of up to 4 inches, the Mourning Cloak is one of the largest butterfly species found in Arizona.

One unique aspect of the Mourning Cloak is its long lifespan, with adults living up to 11 months. This allows dedicated butterfly enthusiasts ample time to observe the species throughout the year.

Look for Mourning Cloaks in parks, fields, and gardens where willows and cottonwoods can be found.

American Snout (Libytheana carinenta)

The American Snout is a unique and distinctive butterfly species found in the woodlands, forests, and riparian areas of Arizona.

• Habitat: Woodlands, forests, and riparian areas in Arizona.
• Appearance: Long, narrow proboscis and a distinct snout-like projection on the front of the head. Wings are orange-brown with dark brown markings and a white spot near the tip.
• Size: Wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from flowers, including butterflyweed and ageratum.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on hackberry trees, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Hackberry trees serve as the primary host plant for American Snout caterpillars.

With a long, narrow proboscis and a distinct snout-like projection on the front of the head, this species is easily recognizable.

Females lay eggs on hackberry trees, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises.

Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including butterflyweed and ageratum. With a wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches, American Snouts are a medium-sized butterfly species.

While the American Snout may not be as common as some of the other butterfly species found in Arizona, its unique appearance and habitat preferences make it a must-see for dedicated butterfly enthusiasts.

Keep an eye out for this species in woodland and riparian areas where hackberry trees can be found.

Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)

The Gulf Fritillary is a stunning butterfly species found in Arizona’s open fields, gardens, and woodland edges.

• Habitat: Open fields, gardens, and woodland edges in Arizona.
• Appearance: Orange wings with black markings, and silver spots on the undersides of the wings.
• Size: Wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from flowers, including passionflower and lantana.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on passionflower plants, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Passionflower plants serve as the primary host plant for Gulf Fritillary caterpillars.

With orange wings and black markings, as well as silver spots on the undersides of the wings, this species is a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts.

Females lay eggs on passionflower plants, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises.

Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including passionflower and lantana. With a wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches, Gulf Fritillaries are a medium-sized butterfly species.

While the primary host plant for Gulf Fritillary caterpillars is the passionflower, adult butterflies can be found feeding on a variety of flowers in open areas in Arizona.

With their striking orange wings and black markings, Gulf Fritillaries are certainly a species to look out for during your next butterfly watching adventure in Arizona.

Zebra Longwing (Heliconius charithonia)

The Zebra Longwing is a unique and striking butterfly species found in the woodlands, gardens, and fields of southeastern Arizona.

• Habitat: Woodlands, gardens, and fields in southeastern Arizona.
• Appearance: Black wings with white stripes and yellow spots, as well as red stripes on the abdomen.
• Size: Wingspan of 2 to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from flowers, including lantana and passionflower.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on passionflower plants, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Passionflower plants serve as the primary host plant for Zebra Longwing caterpillars.

With black wings and distinctive white stripes and yellow spots, as well as red stripes on the abdomen, this species is easily recognizable.

Females lay eggs on passionflower plants, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises.

Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including lantana and passionflower. With a wingspan of 2 to 2.5 inches, the Zebra Longwing is a medium-sized butterfly species.

While the Zebra Longwing may not be as common as some of the other butterfly species found in Arizona, its unique appearance and habitat preferences make it a must-see for dedicated butterfly enthusiasts.

Keep an eye out for this species in woodland, garden, and field habitats where passionflower plants can be found.

Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia)

The Variegated Fritillary is a colorful butterfly species found in Arizona’s open fields, pastures, and prairies.

• Habitat: Open fields, pastures, and prairies in Arizona.
• Appearance: Orange wings with black and silver markings, and a row of black spots on the forewing.
• Size: Wingspan of 1.75 to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from flowers, including milkweed and thistle.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on host plants, including violets and pansies, which caterpillars feed on before forming chrysalises.
• Lifespan: Adults live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: Violets and pansies serve as the primary host plants for Variegated Fritillary caterpillars.

With orange wings and black and silver markings as well as a row of black spots on the forewing, this species is easily recognizable.

Females lay eggs on host plants like violets and pansies, and the resulting caterpillars feed on the leaves until they form chrysalises. Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including milkweed and thistle. With a wingspan of 1.75 to 2.5 inches, the Variegated Fritillary is a medium-sized butterfly species.

While the Variegated Fritillary may not be as large or colorful as some of the other butterfly species found in Arizona, its distinctive coloring and host plant preferences make it a must-see for dedicated butterfly enthusiasts. Look for Variegated Fritillaries in open fields and pastures where violets and pansies can be found.

Great Purple Hairstreak (Atlides halesus)

The Great Purple Hairstreak is one of the most unique butterfly species in Arizona.

• Habitat: This species can be found in arid regions, such as deserts, mesquite flats, and canyons.
• Appearance: The Great Purple Hairstreak has a characteristic iridescent purple-blue color on its wings, with a small tail. Males and females look alike, but the wings of males have a more intense color than females.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 1 to 1.5 inches.
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers, but the larvae primarily feed on the buds and leaves of the mesquite tree.
• Reproduction: They mate in the spring, followed by the female laying eggs in the flowers of host plants.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan depends on the environmental conditions and ranges from a few weeks to a few months.
• Host Plants: Great Purple Hairstreaks use several species of legumes and mesquite trees as host plants, including mesquite (Prosopis species) and indigo bush (Amorpha species).

Its dazzling color is a rarity among butterfly species and is an enchanting sight to see flitting among the vegetation.

These butterflies can be found in arid regions, including deserts, mesquite flats, and canyons. They are known to feed on the flowers of various species, and their larvae primarily feed on the buds and leaves of mesquite trees.

Great Purple Hairstreaks mate in the spring and lay their eggs on the flowers of their host plants. Although their lifespan can vary due to environmental conditions, they typically range from a few weeks to a few months.

These butterflies are host-specific and rely on several species of legumes and mesquite trees, including mesquite (Prosopis species) and indigo bush (Amorpha species).

It is fascinating to learn about their diet and their reliance on specific host plants unique to the Arizona landscape.

Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus)

Gray Hairstreaks are a common species of butterfly in Arizona and can be found in fields, meadows, and gardens with abundant vegetation.

• Habitat: These butterflies can be found in areas with abundant vegetation, including fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: Gray Hairstreaks have a grayish-brown color with white patches and a white line across their wings. The males have a distinctive blue band on their hindwings.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 1 to 1.5 inches.
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers, including legumes, and their larvae primarily feed on the leaves and buds of legumes.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the host plant, and the larvae will consume the host plant before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the environmental conditions.
• Host Plants: Gray Hairstreaks rely solely on various legumes as host plants, including alfalfa, clovers, and vetch.

Their wings are a grayish-brown color with white patches, and males have a blue band on their hindwings.

These butterflies feed on the nectar of flowers and rely on legumes, including clovers and vetch, as their host plants. The lifespan of Gray Hairstreaks ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the environmental conditions.

Females lay their eggs on host plants, and their larvae consume the plant before forming a chrysalis. It is fascinating to learn about their host specificity and their reliance on these leguminous plants for their survival.

Gray Hairstreaks are a beautiful addition to the remarkable butterfly species found in Arizona.

Western Pygmy-Blue (Brephidium exile)

The Western Pygmy-Blue is one of the smallest butterfly species in Arizona, with a wingspan of about half an inch.

• Habitat: These butterflies can be found in open grassy areas, deserts, and scrublands.
• Appearance: Western Pygmy-Blues are a delicate light blue color, with a wingspan of about half an inch.
• Size: Their wingspan is about half an inch.
• Diet: These butterflies feed on flowers from various plants including legumes, sunflowers, and asters.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the host plant, and the larvae consume the plant before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan ranges from a couple of weeks to a month.
• Host Plants: Western Pygmy-Blues reley on leguminous host plants, such as alfalfa and lupines.

These butterflies can be found in open grassy areas, deserts, and scrublands. Their delicate light blue color is breathtaking and easily recognizable.

The Western Pygmy-Blue feeds on flowers from various plants, including legumes, sunflowers, and asters. Females lay their eggs on host plants, and their larvae consume the plant before forming a chrysalis.

These butterflies rely on leguminous host plants such as alfalfa and lupines for their survival. The lifespan of the Western Pygmy-Blue ranges from a couple of weeks to a month.

These butterflies are remarkable not only for their size but also for their beautiful color that adds to the biodiversity of Arizona’s butterfly species.

Marine Blue (Leptotes marina)

The Marine Blue butterfly is a beautiful butterfly species found in Arizona.

• Habitat: The Marine Blue prefers areas with boulders, rocky outcrops, and gravelly slopes, and can also be found in open scrublands and deserts.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a brilliant iridescent blue color on their upper wings and a light gray color on their underwings, with a wingspan of about 0.75 inches (1.9 centimeters).
• Size: Their wingspan is about 0.75 inches (1.9 centimeters).
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of flowers from various plants, such as mesquite and creosote bush.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on host plants, and their larvae consume the host plant before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.
• Host Plants: The Marine Blue is host-specific and relies solely on mesquite trees and legumes such as desert lavender and indigo bush.

They prefer areas with boulders, rocky outcrops, and gravelly slopes, and can also be found in open scrublands and deserts.

These butterflies have a mesmerizing blue color on their upper wings and a light gray on their underwings.

The Marine Blue feeds on the nectar of various plants, including mesquite and creosote bush. Females lay eggs on specific host plants such as mesquite trees and legumes such as desert lavender and indigo bush.

The lifespan of the Marine Blue ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.

It is remarkable to consider the importance of these specific host plants and environmental factors for the survival and proliferation of the Marine Blue butterfly species.

The beautiful colors of the Marine Blue butterfly add to the unique biodiversity found in the Arizona region.

Spring Azure (Celastrina ladon)

The Spring Azure is a beautiful butterfly species found in Arizona.

• Habitat: Spring Azures can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and open fields.
• Appearance: Spring Azures have a light blue color on their upper wings, with a white or gray color on their underwings, and a wingspan of about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters).
• Size: Their wingspan is about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters).
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers, including dogbane and milkweed.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the host plant, and the larvae consume the plant before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan ranges from a few days to a week, depending on the environmental conditions.
• Host Plants: The Spring Azure uses several species of plants as host plants, including dogbane, deer vetch, and New Jersey tea.

These butterflies can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and open fields.

Their light blue color on the upper wings and white or gray color on the underwings is a breathtaking sight. Spring Azures feed on the nectar of various flowers, including dogbane and milkweed.

Females lay eggs on specific host plants such as dogbane, deer vetch, and New Jersey tea, and their larvae consume the host plant before forming a chrysalis.

The lifespan of the Spring Azure ranges from a few days to a week, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.

It is fascinating to learn about the importance of specific host plants for the survival and proliferation of these butterfly species. The Spring Azure butterfly adds to the remarkable diversity of butterfly species found in Arizona.

American Copper (Lycaena phlaeas)

The American Copper butterfly is a beautiful, copper-colored butterfly species found in Arizona.

• Habitat: The American Copper butterfly can be found in open fields, meadows, and grassy areas.
• Appearance: Their upper wings are a bright copper color with dark spots, and their underwings are a lighter brown with orange spots and a wingspan of about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters).
• Size: Their wingspan is about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters).
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers, and their larvae consume the leaves of sorrel plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the host plant, and the larvae consume the host plant before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.
• Host Plants: The American Copper is host-specific and relies solely on sorrel plants as their host plants.

They are found in open fields, meadows, and grassy areas. Their bright copper color on the upper wings is a remarkable sight.

American Copper butterflies are nectar feeders and consume flowers from various plant species. Females lay eggs on specific host plants, and their larvae consume the host plant before forming a chrysalis.

The American Copper butterfly is host-specific and relies solely on sorrel plants as their host plants.

The lifespan of the American Copper ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.

It is amazing to consider the importance of these specific host plants for the survival and proliferation of the American Copper butterfly species.

The American Copper butterfly is a unique and enchanting addition to the many butterfly species found in Arizona.

Checkered White (Pontia protodice)

The Checkered White butterfly is a beautiful and elegant butterfly species commonly found in open fields, meadows, and gardens in Arizona.

• Habitat: Checkered Whites are commonly found in open fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: Checkered Whites have a white color on their wings, with black markings that form a checkered pattern and a wingspan of about 2 inches (5 centimeters).
• Size: Their wingspan is about 2 inches (5 centimeters).
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of various plants, including members of the mustard family such as desert mustard and London rocket. Their larvae consume the leaves of these same plants.
• Reproduction: Female Checkered Whites lay eggs on the host plant, and the larvae consume the plant before forming a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: Their lifespan ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.
• Host Plants: Checkered Whites primarily use plants in the mustard family as host plants, including desert mustard and London rocket.

These butterflies have a white color on their wings with black markings that form a checkered pattern.

Checkered Whites feed on the nectar of various plants, including members of the mustard family such as desert mustard and London rocket.

Females lay their eggs on specific host plants, and the larvae consume the leaves of the same plant before forming a chrysalis.

The lifespan of the Checkered White butterfly ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall.

These butterflies are host-specific and rely mainly on plants in the mustard family, including desert mustard and London rocket.

It is fascinating to learn about the interaction of Checkered Whites with specific plants and the role of these plants in the survival and proliferation of the species.

The Checkered White butterfly is a beautiful addition to the remarkable variety of butterfly species found in Arizona.

Cabbage White (Pieris rapae)

The Cabbage White is a common butterfly species found in gardens, parks, agricultural fields, and suburban areas across Arizona.

• Habitat: Gardens, parks, agricultural fields, suburban areas.
• Appearance: White wings with black spots. Males have a single black spot on each forewing, while females have two black spots.
• Size: 4.5-6.5 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Feeds on plants in the mustard family such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae emerge and eat plant foliage before pupating in a chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: Members of the mustard family such as broccoli, cabbage, kale, and radish.

This butterfly is known for its white wings with black spots, with males having a single black spot on each forewing and females having two. Its wingspan ranges from 4.5-6.5 cm.

As for its diet, the Cabbage White feeds on plants from the mustard family such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale. Females lay eggs singly on the underside of leaves of the host plants.

After emerging, the larvae will eat the foliage of the plant before pupating in a chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 2-3 weeks as adults. Host plants of the Cabbage White include members of the mustard family such as broccoli, cabbage, kale, and radish.

With its distinctive appearance and widespread habitat, the Cabbage White is a familiar sight to many butterfly enthusiasts in Arizona.

Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)

The Cloudless Sulphur is a bright yellow butterfly species commonly found in fields, gardens, meadows, and open woodlands in Arizona.

• Habitat: Fields, gardens, meadows, and open woodlands.
• Appearance: Bright yellow wings with thin black borders. Males have more extensive black along wing borders, while females have more rounded wings and more extensive black on the body.
• Size: 4.5-6 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers and occasionally tree sap or rotting fruit. Caterpillars feed on members of the Senna plant family.
• Reproduction: Females lay green eggs near the tips of host plant leaves. Larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: Partridge pea, coffeeweed, common sensitive plant.

Its wings feature thin black borders, with males having more extensive black along the wing borders and females having more rounded wings and more extensive black on the body. The wingspan of this species ranges from 4.5-6 cm.

When it comes to diet, the Cloudless Sulphur feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers and occasionally tree sap or rotting fruit.

Caterpillars of this species, however, tend to feed on members of the Senna plant family. Females lay green eggs near the tips of the host plant leaves.

After emerging, the larvae feed on the foliage and eventually form their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 2-3 weeks as adults.

With its vibrant yellow color and wide-ranging habitat, the Cloudless Sulphur is a beautiful and familiar sight to many butterfly enthusiasts in Arizona.

Sleepy Orange (Eurema nicippe)

The Sleepy Orange butterfly species is typically found in deserts, grasslands, and meadows across Arizona.

• Habitat: Deserts, grasslands, and meadows.
• Appearance: Bright orange wings with black borders and white spots. Males have a single black spot on the upper surface of each forewing, while females have two.
• Size: 3.5-4 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars feed on members of the Cassia plant family.
• Reproduction: Females lay yellow eggs singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the foliage before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: Partridge pea, coffee senna, casia, wild sennas, clover.

It has bright orange wings with black borders and white spots, with males having a single black spot on each upper forewing surface and females having two.

The wingspan of this butterfly species ranges from 3.5-4 cm.

As for its diet, the Sleepy Orange feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers.

Caterpillars, on the other hand, feed on members of the Cassia plant family. Females lay yellow eggs singly on host plant leaves, and the larvae feed on the foliage before forming their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 2-3 weeks as adults. This butterfly is a beautiful sight in its bright orange coloration, contrasting black borders, and white spots.

With its preference for warm and arid habitats, the Sleepy Orange is a unique and fascinating species to observe in Arizona.

Fiery Skipper (Hylephila phyleus)

The Fiery Skipper butterfly species can be found in fields, meadows, and gardens across Arizona.

• Habitat: Fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: Bright orange-brown wings with a translucent white spot on each forewing. Males often have brighter colors and a more pronounced white patch.
• Size: 1.8-2.5 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars feed on members of the grass family.
• Reproduction: Females lay green eggs singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the grass before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: Bermudagrass, dallisgrass, hairy crabgrass, hairy beggarticks, sugarcane, bentgrass.

This butterfly has bright orange-brown wings with a translucent white spot on each forewing. Males generally have brighter colors and a more pronounced white patch.

The wingspan of this species ranges between 1.8-2.5 cm.

As for its diet, the Fiery Skipper feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, while its caterpillars feed on members of the grass family. Females lay green eggs singly on the leaves of host plants.

After emerging, the larvae will feed on the grass before forming their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 2-3 weeks as adults.

The Fiery Skipper’s bright coloration and preference for sunny, open habitats make it a common sight in fields, gardens, and meadows throughout Arizona.

With its small size and quick, darting flight pattern, this butterfly is a fascinating and challenging subject for observation.

Sachem Skipper (Atalopedes campestris)

The Sachem Skipper butterfly is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and gardens across Arizona.

• Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: Brown wings with a distinctive white patch on each forewing. Males have a slightly brighter white patch than females.
• Size: 2-2.5 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars feed on members of the grass family, including Bermuda grass.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the grass before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: various grasses including Bermuda grass, hairy crabgrass, red fescue, Indian goosegrass, seashore saltgrass.

This butterfly has brown wings with a distinctive white patch on each forewing. Males generally have a slightly brighter white patch than females. The wingspan of Sachem Skippers ranges between 2-2.5 cm.

As for its diet, the Sachem Skipper feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars of this species, as with others in this family, feed on members of the grass family, including Bermuda grass.

Females lay eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. After emerging, the larvae feed on the grass and then eventually form their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 2-3 weeks as adults.

Given the preference for grassy habitat and their small size, Sachem Skippers can be a challenge to spot in the wild.

Despite this, with their distinctive white patches, they are a beautiful sight in the right conditions- and a fascinating species to observe!

Julia Heliconian (Dryas iulia)

The Julia Heliconian is a large and striking butterfly species often found in riparian areas, gardens, and urban parks across Arizona.

• Habitat: Riparian areas, gardens, and urban parks.
• Appearance: Bright orange-red wings with dark black veins and borders. Forewing tips have iridescent blue spots.
• Size: 7.5-10 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars feed on members of the passionflower family.
• Reproduction: Females lay yellow eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae feed on passionflower leaves and stems before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 3-4 months as adults.
• Host Plants: Corkystem passionflower, Whiteflower passionflower.

It has bright orange-red wings with dark black veins and borders, with forewing tips featuring iridescent blue spots. This butterfly species has a wingspan range of 7.5-10 cm.

The diet of the Julia Heliconian is nectar from a variety of flowers, while its caterpillars feed on members of the passionflower family.

Females lay yellow eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves, and the larvae feed on passionflower leaves and stems before forming their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 3-4 months as adults.

With its large size, striking coloration, and preference for flowers and passionflower plants, the Julia Heliconian is a beautiful and unique species to observe in Arizona.

Its iridescent blue spots on the wingtips make it particularly eye-catching, especially in the sunlight.

Arizona Powdered Skipper (Systasea zampa)

The Arizona Powdered Skipper butterfly is a desert species and can be found in desert washes and arroyos in Arizona.

• Habitat: Desert washes and arroyos.
• Appearance: Tan wings with distinctive black and white markings. Males and females have similar markings, but males have more extensive black areas on the wings.
• Size: 2-2.5 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars feed on members of the legume family.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the legume foliage before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adults.
• Host plants: Velvetleaf.

Its wings are a tan color with distinctive black and white markings. Males and females have similar markings, but males generally have more extensive black markings on their wings. The wingspan of this butterfly ranges from 2-2.5 cm.

As for its diet, the Arizona Powdered Skipper feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, while its caterpillars feed on members of the legume family.

Females lay eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves, and the larvae will feed on the foliage before forming their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically 2-3 weeks as adults. Given its preference for desert habitats and its small size, the Arizona Powdered Skipper can be a difficult species to spot in the wild.

However, its distinctive and unique wing markings make it a beautiful and fascinating butterfly to observe for those lucky enough to come across it.

Empress Leilia (Asterocampa leilia)

The Empress Leilia butterfly species can be found in riparian areas, canyons, and mountainous habitats throughout Arizona.

• Habitat: Riparian areas, canyons and mountainous habitats.
• Appearance: Brown wings with a striking white-and-yellow wing spot pattern. Females have a larger and brighter wing spot pattern than males.
• Size: 6-7 cm wingspan.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers. Caterpillars feed on members of the hackberry family.
• Reproduction: Females lay gray-green eggs singly on the upper surface of host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the hackberry leaves before forming their chrysalis.
• Lifespan: 2-3 months as adults.
• Host Plants: Hackberry.

This butterfly has brown wings with a striking white-and-yellow wing spot pattern. Females have a larger and brighter wing spot pattern than males. The wingspan of this butterfly is around 6-7 cm.

As for its diet, the Empress Leilia feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers while its caterpillars tend to feed on members of the hackberry family.

Females lay gray-green eggs singly on the upper surface of host plant leaves. Once they hatch, the larvae feed on the hackberry leaves before forming their chrysalis.

The lifespan of this butterfly species is typically around 2-3 months as adults. With its beautiful coloration and preference for mountainous habitats, the Empress Leilia is an exciting species for butterfly enthusiasts to spot in Arizona.

Seeing a butterfly with such distinct and bright coloration in the wild is a thrilling experience.

Conclusion

There are so many beautiful butterfly species to be found in Arizona, each with their own unique markings and characteristics.

From the iconic Monarch to the lesser-known Checkered White, there is always something new and exciting to discover. We hope this guide has helped you to identify some of the many butterfly species in Arizona.

Do you have a favorite butterfly species that you’ve seen in Arizona? Leave a comment below!