30 Butterfly Species in Atlanta

Atlanta, the capital of Georgia, is home to a diverse range of butterfly species. From the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail to the Cloudless Sulphur, this city has something for every butterfly enthusiast.

In this article, we’ll explore 30 butterfly species found in Atlanta and provide information on their habitat, appearance, size, diet, reproduction, lifespan, and host plants.

Whether you’re a seasoned butterfly watcher or a curious beginner, this guide will help you identify and appreciate the beauty of these fascinating insects.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus)

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is one of the most recognizable butterfly species in Atlanta, easily identified by its large size and striking coloration.

• Habitat: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is commonly found in forests and woodlands, as well as parks and gardens throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have black stripes running horizontally across their bright yellow wings, with a blueish tint near the base of the wings, and distinctive tails on their hindwings. Females have a second form that is completely black with blue scaling on the hindwings.
• Size: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails can reach a wingspan of 3.5-6.5 inches.
• Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, goldenrods, and joe-pyes. The larvae feed on leaves of trees such as black cherry, birch, sweetbay magnolia, and tulip poplar.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay greenish-white eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. The caterpillars emerge after four to ten days, going through five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail caterpillar feeds on several host plants, including tulip poplar, sweet bay magnolia, and black cherry.

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a common sight in Atlanta’s forests, gardens, and parks.

Their striking appearance and size make them easy to identify, and their host plants and diet make them an important part of the local ecosystem.

Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)

The Black Swallowtail is a common butterfly species found in Atlanta, known for its dramatic black and yellow coloration.

• Habitat: The Black Swallowtail is commonly found in open fields, meadows, gardens, and parks throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have distinctive black wings with a row of yellow spots on each wing. The upper wings also have a row of blue spots. The females have more blue scaling and larger areas of yellow on their hind wings than the males.
• Size: Black Swallowtails have a wingspan of 2.5-4 inches.
• Diet: The Black Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, thistles, and clovers. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as parsley, dill, and fennel.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay greenish-yellow eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. The caterpillars emerge after four to ten days, going through five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Black Swallowtails can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Black Swallowtail caterpillar feeds on several host plants, including parsley, dill, fennel, and Queen Anne’s lace.

The Black Swallowtail is a popular butterfly species found throughout Atlanta’s open fields, gardens, and parks.

Their striking black and yellow coloration and distinctive wings are a sight to behold, and their critical role in the local ecosystem makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)

The Spicebush Swallowtail is a beautiful butterfly species found in Atlanta, known for its unique greenish-blue metallic coloration.

• Habitat: The Spicebush Swallowtail is commonly found in deciduous forests, swamps, and wetlands throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a distinctive greenish-blue metallic coloration on the upper side of their wings, with a row of white spots along the edge. The females have more blue near the base of their wings than the males.
• Size: Spicebush Swallowtails have a wingspan of 2.5-4 inches.
• Diet: The Spicebush Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, thistles, and joe-pyes. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as the spicebush, sassafras, and tulip tree.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay greenish-yellow eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. The caterpillars emerge after four to ten days, going through five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Spicebush Swallowtails can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillar feeds primarily on the leaves of the spicebush, but will also feed on sassafras, tulip tree, and hop tree.

The Spicebush Swallowtail is a unique and beautiful butterfly species found in Atlanta’s deciduous forests, wetlands, and swamps.

Their greenish-blue metallic coloration and distinctive wings make them a favorite of butterfly watchers, and their critical role in the local ecosystem makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus)

The Zebra Swallowtail is a striking butterfly species found in Atlanta, known for its distinctive black and white stripes.

• Habitat: The Zebra Swallowtail is commonly found in woodlands, parks, and gardens throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have distinct black and white stripes on their wings, resembling a zebra pattern. The underside of their wings is a pale greenish-white, with several red spots near the base.
• Size: Zebra Swallowtails have a wingspan of 2.5-3.5 inches.
• Diet: The Zebra Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including butterfly weed and Joe-Pye weed. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as pawpaw trees.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay single eggs on the underside of pawpaw tree leaves. The eggs hatch and undergo five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Zebra Swallowtails can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Zebra Swallowtail caterpillar feeds primarily on the leaves of pawpaw trees.

The Zebra Swallowtail is an iconic butterfly species found in Atlanta’s woodlands, parks, and gardens.

Their distinctive black and white stripes and preference for the pawpaw tree make them easy to identify, and their critical role in pollination makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)

The Giant Swallowtail is a large and beautiful butterfly species found in Atlanta, known for its distinctive coloration and unique tails.

• Habitat: The Giant Swallowtail is commonly found in woodlands, gardens, and citrus orchards throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have striking black and yellow coloration on their wings, with a row of blue spots on the lower portion of their hind wings. They also have distinctive tails on their hindwings.
• Size: Giant Swallowtails have a wingspan of 4-6 inches, making them one of the largest butterfly species in the United States.
• Diet: The Giant Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including azaleas, thistles, and milkweeds. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as citrus trees, Prickly-Ash, and Rue.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay single green eggs on the leaves of host plants. The eggs hatch and undergo five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Giant Swallowtails can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Giant Swallowtail caterpillar feeds primarily on the leaves of citrus trees, Prickly-Ash, and Rue.

The Giant Swallowtail is a large and impressive butterfly species found in Atlanta’s woodlands, gardens, and citrus orchards.

Their distinctive coloration and unique tails make them easy to identify, and their critical role in the local ecosystem makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor)

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a striking butterfly species found in Atlanta, known for its iridescent blue and black coloration.

• Habitat: The Pipevine Swallowtail is commonly found in forests, woodlands, and gardens throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a striking black and iridescent blue coloration on their wings, with a row of white spots near the lower edge of the wings.
• Size: Pipevine Swallowtails have a wingspan of 2.5-3.5 inches.
• Diet: The Pipevine Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds and thistles. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as the pipevine plant.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay single eggs on the leaves of host plants such as the pipevine plant. The eggs hatch and undergo five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Pipevine Swallowtails can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillar feeds primarily on the leaves of the pipevine plant.

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a unique and beautiful butterfly species found in Atlanta’s forests, woodlands, and gardens.

Their iridescent blue and black coloration make them easy to identify, and their critical role in pollination makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

The Monarch butterfly is one of the most well-known butterfly species in Atlanta, known for its distinctive orange and black coloration and its long-distance migration.

• Habitat: The Monarch butterfly is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and gardens throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a distinctive orange and black coloration on their wings, with white spots near the tips of their wings.
• Size: Monarchs have a wingspan of 3.5-4 inches.
• Diet: The Monarch feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, goldenrods, and thistles. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as milkweeds.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay single eggs on the leaves of host plants such as milkweeds. The eggs hatch and undergo five instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Monarchs can live up to 8 months as adults, although the summer generation only lives for a few weeks.
• Host Plants: The Monarch caterpillar feeds primarily on the leaves of milkweeds.

The Monarch butterfly is a well-known species found in Atlanta’s open fields, meadows, and gardens.

Their distinctive orange and black coloration and their long-distance migration make them a favorite of butterfly watchers, and their critical role in pollination makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

The Painted Lady is a beautiful butterfly species found in Atlanta, known for its unique coloration and striking patterns.

• Habitat: The Painted Lady is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and parks throughout Atlanta.
• Appearance: These butterflies have a distinctive orange and brown coloration on their wings, with black and white spots near the tips of their wings.
• Size: Painted Ladies have a wingspan of 2-2.5 inches.
• Diet: The Painted Lady feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including thistles and asters. The larvae feed on the leaves of host plants such as thistles, mallows, and hollyhocks.
• Reproduction: Males patrol their territory searching for receptive females. Females lay single eggs on the leaves of host plants such as thistles and mallows. The eggs hatch and undergo four instars before pupating.
• Lifespan: Painted Ladies can live up to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: The Painted Lady caterpillar feeds primarily on the leaves of thistles, mallows, and hollyhocks.

The Painted Lady is a unique and beautiful butterfly species found in Atlanta’s open fields, meadows, and parks.

Their distinctive orange and brown coloration make them easy to identify, and their critical role in pollination makes them an important species to protect and appreciate.

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)

In Atlanta, one of the most common butterfly species is the American Lady, which can be easily recognized by its orange, black, and brown wings with small white spots and eyespots.

• Habitat: American Lady butterflies can be found in meadows, fields, and gardens in Atlanta.
• Appearance: American Lady butterflies have brown, orange, and black wings with small white spots and a distinctive eyespot on each forewing.
• Size: American Lady butterflies have a wingspan of about 2 inches.
• Diet: Caterpillars of American Lady butterflies feed on the leaves of plants in the sunflower family, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as asters, goldenrod, and thistles.
• Reproduction: Female American Lady butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adults.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of an American Lady butterfly is typically about two weeks.
• Host Plants: American Lady caterpillars feed on host plants such as cudweed, pussytoes, and various species of aster.

These butterflies can be found in meadows, fields, and gardens throughout the region.

American Lady caterpillars feed on plants in the sunflower family, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as asters, goldenrod, and thistles.

To reproduce, female American Lady butterflies lay their eggs on leaves of their host plants, and the larvae feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies with a lifespan of about two weeks.

These host plants include cudweed, pussytoes, and various species of aster, which are commonly found in the Atlanta area.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

Another common butterfly species in Atlanta is the Red Admiral, with its black wings with orange and white bands and small white spots on the forewings.

• Habitat: Red Admiral butterflies can be found in wooded areas, fields, and gardens in Atlanta.
• Appearance: Red Admiral butterflies have black wings with orange and white bands and small white spots on the forewings.
• Size: Red Admiral butterflies have a wingspan of about 3 inches.
• Diet: Caterpillars of Red Admiral butterflies feed on the leaves of various host plants, while adult butterflies feed on rotting fruit, tree sap, and nectar from flowers such as milkweed, thistle, and asters.
• Reproduction: Female Red Admiral butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Red Admiral butterfly is typically about two weeks.
• Host Plants: Red Admiral caterpillars feed on a variety of host plants, including nettles, false nettle, and hops.

These butterflies can be found in wooded areas, fields, and gardens throughout the region.

The caterpillars of Red Admiral butterflies feed on the leaves of various host plants, while adult butterflies feed on rotting fruit, tree sap, and nectar from flowers such as milkweed, thistle, and asters.

To reproduce, female Red Admiral butterflies lay their eggs on host plants such as nettles, false nettle, and hops, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.

Red Admiral butterflies have a lifespan of about two weeks.

Buckeye (Junonia coenia)

Buckeye butterflies are brown with orange and white markings and distinctive eyespots on the underside of the hindwings, and can be found in open woodlands, fields, and gardens in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Buckeye butterflies can be found in open woodlands, fields, and gardens in Atlanta.
• Appearance: Buckeye butterflies have brown wings with orange and white markings and distinctive eyespots on the underside of the hindwings.
• Size: Buckeye butterflies have a wingspan of about 2 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of Buckeye butterflies feed on the leaves of plants in the snapdragon family, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as petunias, asters, and milkweed.
• Reproduction: Female Buckeye butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Buckeye butterfly is typically about 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Buckeye caterpillars feed on host plants such as snapdragons, plantain, and monkeyflower.

Buckeye caterpillars feed on the leaves of plants in the snapdragon family, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as petunias, asters, and milkweed.

Female Buckeye butterflies lay their eggs on leaves of host plants such as snapdragons, plantain, and monkeyflower, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.

Buckeye butterflies have a lifespan of about 2-3 weeks.

Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)

Gulf Fritillary butterflies have bright orange wings with black markings and silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings, and can be found in open fields, gardens, and woodlands in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Gulf Fritillary butterflies can be found in open fields, gardens, and woodlands in Atlanta.
• Appearance: Gulf Fritillary butterflies have bright orange wings with black markings and silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings.
• Size: Gulf Fritillary butterflies have a wingspan of about 3 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of Gulf Fritillary butterflies feed on the leaves of passionflower vines, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as lantana, verbena, butterfly bush, and milkweed.
• Reproduction: Female Gulf Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of passionflower vines, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Gulf Fritillary butterfly is typically about 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Gulf Fritillary caterpillars feed on passionflower vines.

These butterflies have a wingspan of about 3 inches.

The caterpillars of Gulf Fritillary butterflies feed on the leaves of passionflower vines, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as lantana, verbena, butterfly bush, and milkweed.

Female Gulf Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of passionflower vines, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies. These butterflies have a lifespan of about 2-3 weeks.

Passionflower vines are common in the Atlanta area, providing ample food and habitat for Gulf Fritillary caterpillars.

Great Spangled Fritillary (Speyeria cybele)

Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies have orange-brown wings with black markings and silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings, and can be found in meadows, fields, and gardens in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies can be found in meadows, fields, and gardens in Atlanta.
• Appearance: Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies have orange-brown wings with black markings and silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings.
• Size: Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies have a wingspan of about 3 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies feed on the leaves of violets, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, coneflowers, and asters.
• Reproduction: Female Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Great Spangled Fritillary butterfly is typically about 1-2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Great Spangled Fritillary caterpillars feed on the leaves of violets.

These butterflies have a wingspan of about 3 inches. The caterpillars of Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies feed on the leaves of violets, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, coneflowers, and asters.

Female Great Spangled Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies. These butterflies have a lifespan of about 1-2 weeks.

Violets are common in the Atlanta area, providing ample food and habitat for Great Spangled Fritillary caterpillars.

Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia)

The Variegated Fritillary butterfly has orange-brown wings with black markings and silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings.

• Habitat: Variegated Fritillary butterflies can be found in open fields, gardens, woodlands, and prairies in Atlanta.
• Appearance: Variegated Fritillary butterflies have orange-brown wings with black markings and silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings.
• Size: Variegated Fritillary butterflies have a wingspan of about 2-3 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of Variegated Fritillary butterflies feed on the leaves of plants in the viola family, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, lantana, and asters.
• Reproduction: Female Variegated Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs on host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Variegated Fritillary butterfly is typically about 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Variegated Fritillary caterpillars feed on host plants in the viola family, including violets and pansies.

These butterflies have a wingspan of about 2-3 inches and can be found in open fields, gardens, woodlands, and prairies in Atlanta.

The caterpillars of Variegated Fritillary butterflies feed on the leaves of plants in the viola family, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, lantana, and asters.

Female Variegated Fritillary butterflies lay their eggs on leaves of host plants such as violets and pansies, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adults.

These butterflies have a lifespan of about 2-3 weeks, and are a common sight in the Atlanta area due to the abundance of host plants.

Silver-spotted Skipper (Epargyreus clarus)

The Silver-spotted Skipper butterfly has brown wings with white spots and distinctive silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings.

• Habitat: Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies can be found in open fields, gardens, and meadows in Atlanta.
• Appearance: Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies have brown wings with white spots and distinctive silver spots on the undersides of the hindwings.
• Size: Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies have a wingspan of about 2 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies feed on the leaves of various host plants, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as butterfly bush, thistles, and milkweed.
• Reproduction: Female Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of their host plants, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: The lifespan of a Silver-spotted Skipper butterfly is typically about 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Silver-spotted Skipper caterpillars feed on a variety of host plants, including clover, beans, and tobacco.

These butterflies have a wingspan of about 2 inches and can be found in open fields, gardens, and meadows in Atlanta.

The caterpillars of Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies feed on the leaves of various host plants, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as butterfly bush, thistles, and milkweed.

Female Silver-spotted Skipper butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants such as clover, beans, and tobacco, and the larvae emerge and feed on the leaves before pupating and becoming adult butterflies.

These butterflies have a lifespan of about 2-3 weeks, and are commonly observed in the Atlanta area due to the abundance of host plants.

Sachem (Atalopedes campestris)

The Sachem is a small butterfly species that can be found across Atlanta, Georgia.

• Habitat: Sachems are commonly found in open, grassy areas such as fields, meadows, and prairies.
• Appearance: Sachem butterflies have brown wings with black and white markings. Females have larger white markings on their wings than males.
• Size: Sachems have a wingspan of approximately 1 inch.
• Diet: Sachem caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses, such as Bermuda grass and crabgrass. Adult Sachems feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Female Sachems lay their eggs on blades of grass. The caterpillars hatch and feed for approximately 2 weeks before pupating and emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Sachems typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Sachem caterpillars primarily feed on grasses such as Bermuda grass and crabgrass.

Sachems are a common and fascinating species of butterfly found in Atlanta’s grassy areas.

Their brown wings with black and white markings make them easy to spot.

If you are interested in observing these beautiful creatures, head to an open field or meadow and look for blades of grass with Sachem eggs or caterpillars.

Fiery Skipper (Hylephila phyleus)

The Fiery Skipper is a common butterfly species found in the Atlanta area.

• Habitat: Fiery Skippers can be found in a wide range of habitats, including fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: These butterflies have orange-brown wings with black markings. The wings of males are often brighter than those of females.
• Size: Fiery Skippers have a wingspan of approximately 1 inch.
• Diet: Fiery Skipper caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses. Adult butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Female Fiery Skippers lay their eggs on the leaves of grasses. The caterpillars hatch and feed for approximately 2 weeks before pupating and emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Fiery Skippers typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Fiery Skipper caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses.

The Fiery Skipper is a lovely sight to behold with its bright orange-brown wings and contrasting black markings.

One easy way to spot them is to look for them fluttering about in open fields or gardens. Keep an eye out for eggs and caterpillars on the leaves of grasses.

It’s always a delight to see this beautiful butterfly species in Atlanta.

Clouded Skipper (Lerema accius)

The Clouded Skipper is a common butterfly species found in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Clouded Skippers can be found in a variety of habitats, including open fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: These butterflies have brown wings with darker brown and black markings. The wings of males have a more solid brown color than females.
• Size: Clouded Skippers have a wingspan of approximately 1 inch.
• Diet: Clouded Skipper caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses. Adult butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Female Clouded Skippers lay their eggs on the leaves of grasses. The caterpillars hatch and feed for approximately 2 weeks before pupating and emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Clouded Skippers typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Clouded Skipper caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses.

The Clouded Skipper may not be flashy, but its brown wings have a subtle beauty that’s worth appreciating.

Though they may be small, keep an eye out for them fluttering about in open fields or gardens. You might be lucky enough to spot their eggs or caterpillars on the leaves of grasses.

These butterflies have an important role to play in local ecosystems, so take a moment to appreciate the Clouded Skipper if you have the chance.

Zabulon Skipper (Poanes zabulon)

The Zabulon Skipper is a beautiful butterfly species that can be found in a variety of habitats around Atlanta.

• Habitat: Zabulon Skippers can be found in a variety of habitats, such as fields, meadows, and forests, and they tend to prefer areas with tall grasses and wildflowers.
• Appearance: These butterflies have brown to gray-brown wings with white and yellowish markings. The males have brighter and more distinct markings than the females.
• Size: Zabulon Skippers have a wingspan of approximately 1.25 to 1.5 inches.
• Diet: Zabulon Skipper caterpillars feed on various grasses, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants.
• Reproduction: The females lay their eggs on the blades of a grass host plant. The caterpillars hatch and feed on the blades for around two to three weeks before they flare up the chrysalis to emerge as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Zabulon Skippers typically live for around one to two weeks as adults.
• Host Plants: Their host plants consist of a wide range of grasses, including bluegrass, Bermuda grass, fescue, and others.

The Zabulon Skipper is a striking butterfly species with distinct white and yellowish markings that stand out against their brown wings.

If you want to observe these beautiful insects, head to any open grassy area like meadows or fields, where they are plentiful, and keep your eyes peeled for their distinctive wings.

These butterflies have a great deal of ecological importance, so keep an eye out for their eggs and caterpillars on grass blades as well.

Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at these beautiful creatures in the wild around Atlanta.

Horace’s Duskywing (Erynnis horatius)

The Horace’s Duskywing is a small, yet fascinating butterfly species found in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Horace’s Duskywings are commonly found in woodland areas and forest edges from springtime to early summer.
• Appearance: These butterflies have brown wings with white and gray markings. Their wingspan is roughly 1.25 to 1.5 inches.
• Size: Horace’s Duskywing have a wingspan of approximately 1.25 to 1.5 inches.
• Diet: Horace’s Duskywing caterpillars eat leaves of oak trees, while adult Horace’s Duskywings feed on nectar from various flowers.
• Reproduction: Adult Horace’s Duskywings mate and lay eggs on host plants, which are usually oak trees. The caterpillars feed on oak leaves before forming a chrysalis and emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Horace’s Duskywings typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Horace’s Duskywing caterpillars feed on oak trees, as well as hickories and walnuts.

Horace’s Duskywing is a beautiful butterfly species that you can find in Atlanta. Their wing patterns of brown, white, and gray are unique to this type of butterfly.

They can be mostly spotted in woody areas around Atlanta, so keep a lookout while on forest walks.

You might spot its caterpillars eating leaves on oak trees during late spring and early summer.

As they have a short lifespan, you need to be quick to observe these beautiful Horace’s Duskywings in their natural habitat, so consider yourself lucky if you spot one!

Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas)

The Eastern Tailed-Blue is a small and fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Eastern Tailed-Blues can be found in various habitats, such as meadows, fields, gardens, and wooded areas.
• Appearance: These butterflies have bright blue wings with a black border and a distinctive “tail” on their hindwings. Females are typically larger and have more brownish-black markings than males.
• Size: Eastern Tailed-Blues have a wingspan of approximately 0.75 to 1 inch.
• Diet: The Eastern Tailed-Blue caterpillars feed on flowers from plants in the legume family. Adult butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on host plants in the legume family, such as clovers and vetches. Caterpillars hatch and feed for approximately 2 weeks before forming chrysalises and emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Eastern Tailed-Blues typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Host plants for Eastern Tailed-Blues include various members of the legume family such as clovers, vetches, and alfalfa.

Eastern Tailed-Blue is a beautiful butterfly species that can be found in several habitats around Atlanta.

Their bright blue wings and black borders make them easy to spot, and their distinct “tail” on their hindwings sets them apart from other butterfly species.

You can observe these butterflies fluttering around in open fields or gardens in the spring and summer.

Keep an eye out for clover patches, which serve an important role as host plants for Eastern Tailed-Blue caterpillars.

Don’t miss out on admiring these beautiful creatures at your nearest greenspace, and allow yourself to be delighted by their beauty.

Spring Azure (Celastrina ladon)

The Spring Azure is a beautiful and common butterfly species found in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Spring Azures can be found in various habitats, such as meadows, fields, gardens, and forest edges.
• Appearance: These butterflies have bright blue-violet wings with white borders on the upper side, while the underside is mostly whitish-grey with black spots. Males have brighter blue wings than females.
• Size: Spring Azures have a wingspan of approximately 0.75 to 1 inch.
• Diet: The Spring Azure caterpillars feed on the flower buds, flower nectar, and leaves of various plants, including dogwoods, blueberries, and others. Adult butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Female Spring Azures lay their eggs on the flowers, buds, and leaves of host plants, and the caterpillars hatch after three to five days. After around 2-3 weeks of feeding, the caterpillars pupate and metamorphose into adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: Spring Azures typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Host plants for Spring Azures include the flower buds and leaves of various plants, such as dogwoods, blueberries, clovers, and other legume plants.

The Spring Azure is a lovely butterfly species with bright blue-violet wings that contrast beautifully with the white borders on the upper side.

You can observe these butterflies fluttering around in grassy areas, gardens, and wooded areas around Atlanta. Keep an eye out for their host plants, including the buds of dogwoods and blueberries, and the leaves of clovers and other legumes.

Their eggs, caterpillars, and pupae can also be found on host plants.

These butterflies are vital to pollination, so make sure to take the time to admire their beautiful colors and unique patterns.

American Snout (Libytheana carinenta)

The American Snout is an intriguing butterfly species found in Atlanta.

• Habitat: American Snouts can be found in various habitats, such as meadows, fields, gardens, and forest edges.
• Appearance: These butterflies have distinctive long snouts that resemble the nose of a bird, with brown wings marked with cream and orange spots. The snouts are used to extract moisture and nutrients from rotting fruit or sap and tree droppings.
• Size: American Snouts have a wingspan of approximately 1.5 to 2 inches and can be surprisingly large.
• Diet: The American Snout caterpillars feed on the leaves of hackberry trees, while the adult butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers and nutrients from rotting fruit or tree droppings.
• Reproduction: Female American Snouts lay their eggs singly on the leaves of hackberry trees, where the caterpillars hatch and feed for several weeks before emerging as adult butterflies.
• Lifespan: American Snouts typically live for 1-2 weeks as adult butterflies.
• Host Plants: Host plants for American Snout caterpillars include various species of hackberry trees.

The American Snout is a unique butterfly species with long, bird-like snouts that make them easy to identify. You can observe these butterflies fluttering around in grassy areas, gardens, and wooded areas around Atlanta.

If you are lucky, you may even see them extracting moisture and nutrients from rotting fruit or tree droppings with their snouts.

Keep an eye out for their host plant, the hackberry tree, and their eggs and caterpillars that feed on their leaves.

The American Snout is a vital part of the local ecosystem, so take the time to appreciate their quirky charm.

Red-spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis astyanax)

The Red-spotted Purple butterfly is a striking species found across Atlanta.

• Habitat: These butterflies prefer woodlands, but they can also be found in parks and gardens.
• Appearance: The upper wings of this butterfly are a dark blue-black color with iridescent blue markings, while the undersides are a dark reddish-brown with white and blue spots.
• Size: They have a wingspan of 2.5 – 4 inches (6.3 – 10 cm).
• Diet: Their diet consists of nectar from flowers such as milkweeds, thistles, and dogbanes. As caterpillars, they feed on the leaves of various trees such as cherry, birch, and aspen.
• Reproduction: The female can lay up to 200 eggs on the undersides of leaves. The eggs take approximately one week to hatch.
• Lifespan: The Red-spotted Purple butterfly has a relatively long lifespan of 9-12 months because they overwinter as adults.
• Host Plants: The preferred host plants of this butterfly are ones with leaves containing phenolic compounds, such as black cherry, birch, oak, and willow.

The Red-spotted Purple butterfly is an interesting and common species across Atlanta, and it thrives in woodlands and parks where there are ample host plants to provide for its diet and reproduction needs.

Viceroy (Limenitis archippus)

The Viceroy butterfly is another striking and commonly observed species across Atlanta.

• Habitat: Viceroys are found in all kinds of habitats, from forests and woodlands to meadows and gardens.
• Appearance: They have a similar appearance to Monarch butterflies, with bright orange and black wings marked with white spots and veins, but are smaller in size.
• Size: They have a wingspan of 2.5 – 3.5 inches (6.3 – 8.9 cm).
• Diet: Their diet consists of nectar from a variety of flowers, including goldenrods, asters, and milkweeds. As caterpillars, they feed on the leaves of various trees such as willows, cottonwoods, and aspens.
• Reproduction: The female lays her eggs on host plants or leaves. The eggs hatch in about a week and the caterpillars grow for about a month before pupating to become butterflies.
• Lifespan: The Viceroy butterfly has a relatively short lifespan of 1-2 months.
• Mimicry: Although the Viceroy butterfly is not toxic, it mimics the appearance of the toxic Monarch butterfly to ward off predators.

The Viceroy butterfly is a fascinating species that can be found in many different habitats across Atlanta and is known for its mimicry of the Monarch butterfly. They have specific dietary needs and reproductive habitats, making it important to preserve the natural habitats that they depend on for survival.

Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis)

The Question Mark butterfly is a relatively small and unique species found across Atlanta.

• Habitat: They favor woodland edges, meadows, and suburban parks.
• Appearance: They are named for a distinguishing mark on the underside of their hindwings that resembles a question mark. The upper surface of their wings is a burnt orange with black markings.
• Size: They have a wingspan of 2 – 2.5 inches (5 – 6.3 cm).
• Diet: Their diet consists of the nectar from various flowers, such as asters and daisies. As caterpillars, they feed on elm, hackberry, and hop trees as well as nettles.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the host plants, and the eggs take about a week to hatch. The caterpillars develop for about a month before pupating.
• Lifespan: The Question Mark butterfly has a lifespan of about 8-10 months, including the months spent hibernating in winter.
• Range: These butterflies are found throughout most of North America east of the Rocky Mountains.

The Question Mark butterfly is a unique and recognizable species that is found across Atlanta in many different habitats.

Their specific dietary and habitat needs make them an important member of their ecosystem.

Eastern Comma (Polygonia comma)

The Eastern Comma butterfly is widespread throughout most of the U.S, Canada, and Mexico.

• Habitat: Found in woodland habitats, gardens and parks.
• Appearance: Has distinctive orange wings with a jagged, black outline and a small white edge along the outer margins.
• Size: On average, the Eastern Comma has a wingspan between 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Eastern Comma caterpillars feed on various tree leaves like elm, hackberry, and hop-hornbeam.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the underside of leaves. The eggs Hatch into brown and green caterpillars that will pupate and emerge as adults in 2-3 months.
• Lifespan: The adult Eastern Comma butterfly can live for up to 10 months in favorable conditions.
• Host Plants: It lays its eggs on the leaves of various tree species, including false nettle, hops, elms, and birch.

Its name is derived from the small comma-like mark on its underwing. This butterfly has a preference for woodland habitats, making it common in Atlanta gardens and parks.

The eggs are laid singly or in small clusters on the underside of the host plant’s leaves. Once the caterpillars hatch, they feed on the leaves of the host plant and other plants nearby.

The adult butterfly feeds on tree sap and nectar from flowers. The Eastern Comma butterfly is a relatively long-lived species, and it can survive up to 10 months in favorable conditions.

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

The Mourning Cloak butterfly is one of the first butterflies to emerge in the spring and can be found year-round in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Found in wooded areas, near streams and rivers, and in gardens and parks.
• Appearance: Dark brown with a purple tint and a bright blue band with small yellow spots along the edges of the wings. It has yellow spots on the margins of the forewings.
• Size: The wingspan of an adult Mourning Cloak is between 3-4 inches.
• Diet: Caterpillars feed on trees, mostly willows, cottonwoods, and elms.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs in groups of 75-100 on the bark of a host tree. Caterpillars hatch and pupate into adults in around 1-2 months.
• Lifespan: The Mourning Cloak butterfly can live for up to 10 months in favorable conditions.
• Host Plants: The larvae of the Mourning Cloak feed on the leaves of various tree species, including willow, aspen, elm, birch, and maple.

Even though it is dark brown with a blue band and yellow spots, it is a “cloak” of mourning because it appears as if draped in cloak.

It prefers woodland areas, making it common in the parks and gardens in the city. Eggs are laid in clusters on tree trunks or branches.

When the caterpillars hatch, they feed on the leaves of trees growing near the host tree, building loose webs among the branches.

The adult butterfly feeds on tree sap, rotting fruit, and nectar from flowers. This large and long-lived butterfly has adapted well to urban environments and can survive up to ten months in the wild.

Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos)

The Pearl Crescent butterfly is a common sight in open areas like fields, meadows, and gardens throughout Atlanta.

• Habitat: Found in open habitats like fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: Orange-brown with a metallic white c-shaped band on the undersides of the wings, resembling a freshwater pearl. It also has black dots and crescents on both wings.
• Size: The wingspan of an adult Pearl Crescent is between 1.25-1.75 inches.
• Diet: The caterpillars of Pearl Crescent feed on the leaves of various aster and sunflower species.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves and stems of host plants in clusters of 4-12. The eggs hatch in 3-7 days, and the caterpillars pupate into adults in 2-4 weeks.
• Lifespan: The Pearl Crescent butterfly can live for up to six weeks in favorable conditions.
• Host Plants: The larvae of the Pearl Crescent feed on the leaves of various aster and sunflower species.

The butterfly’s orange-brown color and c-shaped white band on the undersides of the wings, make it easy to identify.

It feeds on nectar and can be seen fluttering among native flowers. The female butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves and stems of the host plants.

Once the eggs hatch, the caterpillars will feed on the leaves of various aster and sunflower species.

As the caterpillars grow, they will spin silken mats to pupate into adults. Pearl Crescents are relatively short-lived, surviving for up to six weeks in favorable conditions.

Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)

The Cloudless Sulphur butterfly is a bright yellow butterfly commonly found in open areas, fields, gardens, and parks in Atlanta.

• Habitat: Found in open areas, fields, gardens, and parks.
• Appearance: Bright yellow wings with no markings. Male Cloudless Sulphur butterflies may have a small black dot on their forewings.
• Size: The wingspan of an adult Cloudless Sulphur is between 2.5-3.5 inches.
• Diet: Caterpillars of the Cloudless Sulphur feed on the leaves of legumes like clover, alfalfa, and wild senna.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. Caterpillars pupate and emerge as adults in around 4-6 weeks.
• Lifespan: The Cloudless Sulphur butterfly can live up to six weeks.
• Host Plants: The larvae of the Cloudless Sulphur feed exclusively on legumes including clover, alfalfa, and wild senna.

Its bright yellow wings lack any distinguishing markings, and the males have a small black dot on their forewings. It feeds on nectar and will visit any available flowers.

The female butterflies lay their eggs singly on the leaves of a host plant. Once the eggs hatch, the caterpillars feed on the leaves of legumes like clover, alfalfa, and wild senna. The caterpillars will pupate and emerge as adults in around 4-6 weeks.

The Cloudless Sulphur has a relatively short lifespan, with an adult butterfly living for up to six weeks.

This butterfly is easily identifiable due to its bright yellow color and lack of markings, making it a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts in Atlanta.

Conclusion

Atlanta is home to many beautiful butterfly species that capture our attention with their vibrant colors and unique markings.

From the Eastern Comma to the Cloudless Sulphur, these butterflies are valuable pollinators and contribute to their ecosystems in countless ways.

Have you spotted any of these butterfly species in Atlanta? Please leave a comment and share your experiences!