30 Butterfly Species in Texas

Butterflies are an essential part of the ecosystem and are known for their striking beauty and grace. Texas is home to an impressive variety of butterfly species, with a count of over 300.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on 30 butterfly species found in Texas. You’ll get to learn about their habitats, physical appearance, diets, and reproduction, among other characteristics.

Let’s explore the world of Texas butterflies!

Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

The Monarch Butterfly is one of the most recognizable and iconic butterfly species, known for its vibrant orange and black wings.

Here are some key facts about this species in Texas:

• Habitat: Found in meadows, fields, gardens, and along highways in Texas.
• Appearance: A large butterfly with a wingspan of 3-4 inches. The bright orange and black wings are well-known.
• Size: Average wingspan of 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, including milkweed, which is essential for its survival.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on milkweed plants. The caterpillar spends two weeks eating before forming a chrysalis and spending another two weeks in it before turning into an adult butterfly.
• Lifespan: Monarchs live for about 6-8 months in the winter, but only 2-6 weeks in the summer months.
• Host Plants: Milkweed is a vital host plant for the Monarch Butterfly, as the larvae feed exclusively on it.

The Monarch Butterfly is one of the most studied butterflies in the world, and has become a symbol of conservation awareness.

In Texas, Monarchs are a common sight during their migration season, typically between late August and early October, as they make their way to Mexico for the winter.

Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippus)

The Queen Butterfly is a close relative of the Monarch Butterfly and is also found in Texas.

Here’s what you need to know about this species:

• Habitat: Found in various habitats, including open fields, pastures, and gardens.
• Appearance: Slightly smaller than the Monarch Butterfly, the Queen has wings that are a lighter shade of orange, with white spots and black borders.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2.9-3.7 inches (7.4-9.5 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from a wide range of flowers, including milkweed and other plants.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on milkweed or other plants. The caterpillar looks similar to the Monarch caterpillar, but with more extensive black markings.
• Lifespan: Lives for around 1-2 months.
• Host Plants: Milkweed, like the Monarch Butterfly, is a crucial host plant for this species.

The Queen Butterfly is not as famous as the Monarch, but it shares many of the same ecological roles and characteristics.

It is also an essential pollinator and provides food for other animals. In Texas, the Queen Butterfly can be seen throughout the year, but populations tend to peak between April and June.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

The Painted Lady is a colorful and widespread butterfly species found in many parts of the world, including Texas.

Here’s what you should know about this species:

• Habitat: Found in open areas such as meadows, fields, and parks.
• Appearance: The upper wings are orangish-brown with black and white spots, while the lower wings have eyespots and blue spots.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2-2.9 inches (5.1-7.4 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from a wide range of flowers and host plants, including thistles, asters, and hollyhocks.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on host plants, and the caterpillar feeds on the leaves. The pupal stage lasts for around 10-14 days before the adult butterfly emerges.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Various host plants including thistles, mallows, and other plants.

The Painted Lady butterfly is known for its long-distance migrations, with some individuals traveling over 1000 miles.

In Texas, this species is particularly prevalent in the spring and fall, but can be seen throughout the year if favorable conditions exist.

Attracting Painted Ladies to your garden is easy, as they feed on a wide range of flowers, making them a wonderful addition to any flower bed or open field.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

Another species of Vanessa butterfly found in Texas is the beautiful Red Admiral.

Here are the key facts about this species:

• Habitat: Found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, gardens, and forests.
• Appearance: The upper wings have black bands with red/orange markings, while the lower wings have red/orange bands with black markings.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2.5-3 inches (6.4-7.6 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from a range of flowers, including milkweed, thistles, and goldenrod.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on host plants, typically nettles. The caterpillar feeds on the leaves before forming a chrysalis and emerging as an adult butterfly.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Nettles are the primary host plant for Red Admirals, but they will also use other plants in the nettle family, such as false nettle.

The Red Admiral is known for its fast and erratic flying style, making it an exciting species to watch.

It is often found in large numbers during the early spring months in Texas and can be attracted to gardens with the right plants.

Its striking appearance and important ecological role as a pollinator make this butterfly a fascinating sight for anyone interested in the natural world.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus)

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a beautiful species of butterfly found in Texas, known for its large size and distinctive appearance.

Here are some key facts about this species:

• Habitat: Found in a wide range of habitats, including fields, forests, and open woodlands.
• Appearance: The upper wings are yellow with black stripes and have blue and orange markings near the body, while the lower wings are blue with black bands and orange spots near the body. Females have darker coloration and larger wings than males.
• Size: Average wingspan of 3.5-4.5 inches (8.9-11.4 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from a range of flowers and host plants, including wild cherry, tulip trees, and wildflowers.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on host plants, primarily trees in the rose family. The caterpillars are green with black bands and a pair of false eyes on the thorax.
• Lifespan: Can live up to a year in the south and 2-3 weeks in the north.
• Host Plants: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail caterpillar feeds primarily on trees in the rose family, including tulip trees, wild cherries, and apple trees.

In Texas, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is commonly seen from late spring through the summer months.

Its impressive size and distinct coloration make it a popular species among butterfly enthusiasts.

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is an important pollinator and a vital species in the ecosystem, making it an essential part of the natural world.

Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)

The Black Swallowtail is a lovely species of butterfly found in Texas, with striking black and yellow markings.

Here are some key facts about this species:

• Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats, including fields, pastures, gardens, and meadows.
• Appearance: The upper wings have a black base with yellow markings, while the lower wings are black with a row of yellow spots near the edge.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2.9-3.9 inches (7.4-9.9 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from flowers and host plants, including parsley, dill, and fennel.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on host plants, primarily in the carrot family, such as dill or fennel. The caterpillar is mostly black with yellow spots and spikes.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillar feeds primarily on plants in the carrot family, including parsley, dill, and fennel.

The Black Swallowtail is widely distributed across the United States, and can be seen in Texas during the warmer months.

This species is a common sight in gardens, where it can often be seen feeding on flowers. Its caterpillar is a unique black color with yellow stripes and has distinct spikes that protrude from its body.

The Black Swallowtail is a critical component of the natural ecosystem, providing important pollination services and offering a glimpse into the beauty of the natural world.

Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor)

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a unique and striking butterfly species found in Texas, with a distinctive dark coloration and iridescent blue markings.

Here are some key facts about this species:

• Habitat: Found in forests, woodlands, and meadows where their host plant, the pipevine plant, grows.
• Appearance: The upper wings are predominantly black with iridescent blue markings, while the lower wings are mostly red/orange with black spots.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2.5-4 inches (6.4-10.2 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from various flowers, including milkweed and thistle.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on the pipevine plant, and the caterpillar feeds on the leaves. The pupal stage lasts for around 10-15 days before the adult butterfly emerges.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Its primary host plant is the pipevine plant, which contains toxic compounds that provide protection from predators.

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a highly specialized species, with its diet and reproduction being dependent on the presence of the pipevine plant.

This species is known for its unique and striking coloration, and it is a highlight for any butterfly watcher in Texas.

While they may be difficult to spot due to their preference for forest areas, attracting them to your garden is possible if the right host plants are provided.

In the wild, the Pipevine Swallowtail plays an important role in pollination and is a critical species in the natural ecosystem.

Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)

The Gulf Fritillary is a lovely butterfly species found in Texas, with vibrant coloration and striking patterns.

Here are some key facts about this species:

• Habitat: Found in fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: The upper wings are bright orange with black markings, while the lower wings have large silver spots.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2.8-3.7 inches (7.1-9.4 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from a wide range of flowers and host plants, including passionflower, lantana, and honeysuckle.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on the host plant, and the caterpillar feeds on the leaves. The pupal stage lasts around 10-14 days before the adult butterfly emerges.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Passiflora species, such as passionflower, are the primary host plants for the Gulf Fritillary.

The Gulf Fritillary is a common sight across the southern United States, including in Texas.

This species is highly attracted to passionflower, so growing it in your garden is an excellent way to attract this beautiful butterfly.

The caterpillar of the Gulf Fritillary is black with orange spikes and is commonly known as the “passion vine caterpillar.”

This species is an important pollinator and plays a crucial role in the natural ecosystem. Whether you’re an avid butterfly watcher or just enjoy the beauty of nature, the Gulf Fritillary is a butterfly species not to be missed.

Zebra Longwing (Heliconius charithonia)

The Zebra Longwing is a unique and striking butterfly species found in Texas, with distinctive black and white stripes and elongated wings.

Here are some key facts about this species:

• Habitat: Found in various habitats, including forests, gardens, and meadows.
• Appearance: The wings are black with white stripes, and the body is black with yellow spots. The wings are elongated, and the hindwings are longer than the forewings, giving the butterfly a distinctive shape.
• Size: Average wingspan of 2.5-3 inches (6.4-7.6 cm).
• Diet: Feeds on nectar from various flowers, including thistle, milkweed, and passionflower.
• Reproduction: Lays eggs on the host plant, typically passionflower. The caterpillar is spiny and has black and yellow bands.
• Lifespan: Can live up to 6 months.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for the Zebra Longwing is the passionflower vine.

The Zebra Longwing butterfly, also known as the Zebra Heliconian, is a beautiful and unique species found in Texas.

These butterflies are easily identifiable due to their black and white striped wings with subtle hints of yellow and red. Zebra Longwings thrive in areas that are damp and have plenty of host plants, primarily passionflower vines where they lay their eggs.

Although Zebra Longwings feed on nectar from many different flowers, they also require other nutrients that they get by sipping on aphid honeydew.

Female Zebra Longwings lay their eggs on the undersides of passionflower vines, the primary host plant for their caterpillars. Larvae feed solely on the passionflower leaves until they are ready to pupate and turn into beautiful butterflies.

The lifespan of a Zebra Longwing ranges between 4 to 8 months. During this time, they mate and lay eggs to continue their species’ existence.

Zebra Longwings play an essential role in pollinating flowers while also acting as a food source for other animals in their habitat.

The Zebra Longwing butterfly is a unique and beautiful species native to Texas.

Their striking appearance and preference for passionflower vines make them easily identifiable.

As with all butterfly species, Zebra Longwings play an essential role in their habitat, pollinating flowers and providing a valuable food source for other animals.

Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis)

Question Mark butterflies are a species that is native to Texas. They are recognizable by their brown wings with black markings.

A distinct feature is an upside down silvery “question mark” on its lower hindwings, hence the name Question Mark.

• Habitat: Question Marks prefer wooded areas, preferably near streams or other moist habitats.
• Appearance: They have brown wings with distinctive black markings, and the underside of their hindwings shows a silvery white comma-shaped mark that resembles a question mark.
• Size: The wingspan of the butterfly ranges between 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Diet: The primary food source for Question Marks is tree sap, and they are known to visit overripe fruit and flowers for nectar.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on host plants such as hackberry trees, while the caterpillar feeds on the leaves of the tree.
• Lifespan: Question Marks can live for up to 11 months.
• Host Plants: Larvae of Question Marks feed almost exclusively on hackberry trees.

Their preferred habitat is wooded areas near streams or other moist habitats with host trees for larvae. Question Marks feed on tree sap and are known to visit overripe fruit and flowers for nectar.

Females lay their eggs on host trees, and the caterpillar feeds on the leaves of hackberry trees almost exclusively.

Question Marks are relatively long-lived butterflies, with a lifespan of up to 11 months. During this time, they mate, reproduce, and continue the cycle of the species.

Although not necessarily an important pollinator, Question Marks have a unique role in the ecosystem as the larvae plays a crucial role in keeping the population of host trees in check.

Question Mark butterflies are a unique species native to Texas with distinctive brown wings with black markings and a silvery “question mark” on their hindwings.

They play an essential role in the ecosystem with a preference for hackberry trees as their host plants.

Despite their unique appearance, Question Marks don’t have a significant role in pollination but contribute to the ecosystem cycle.

Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia)

Common Buckeyes are a species of butterfly found throughout Texas. They have distinct brown wings with white and orange markings and a large eyespot on each of their wings. They can be found in open areas such as fields, meadows, and gardens, as well as in more wooded areas.

• Habitat: Common Buckeyes can be found in open areas such as fields, meadows, and gardens, but also in more wooded areas.
• Appearance: Common Buckeyes have distinctive brown wings with white and orange markings and a large eyespot on each forewing and hindwing.
• Size: The wingspan of the butterfly is approximately 2 inches.
• Diet: The primary food source for Common Buckeyes is nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on host plants such as snapdragons, and the caterpillar feeds on the leaves of the plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Common Buckeye is around 11 days.
• Host Plants: The larvae of Common Buckeyes feed on plants in the snapdragon family.

The primary food source for Common Buckeyes is nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowers.

Female Buckeyes lay their eggs on host plants such as snapdragons, the primary host plant for their larvae. The caterpillar feeds on the leaves of the plant and molts several times before becoming a butterfly.

Common Buckeyes have a relatively short lifespan, with an average of 11 days, during which individuals mate and reproduce to continue the species’ existence.

They are an important pollinator, transporting pollen from one plant to another and promoting plant growth and reproduction.

Common Buckeyes are a common sight throughout Texas with their distinctive brown wings, white and orange markings, and large eyespots.

They play an essential role in pollinating flowering plants and use snapdragons as their host plant for larvae. Despite their relatively short lifespan, Common Buckeyes contribute to the ecosystem’s balance and plant growth.

American Snout (Libytheana carinenta)

American Snouts are a unique species of butterfly found throughout Texas. They have distinctive long snouts and grayish-brown wings with white spots.

They can be found in open areas such as fields, meadows, and gardens, as well as wooded areas with host plants.

• Habitat: American Snouts can be found in open areas such as fields, meadows, and gardens as well as wooded areas with host plants.
• Appearance: Adult American Snouts have a distinctive long snout and grayish-brown wings with white spots.
• Size: The wingspan of the butterfly ranges from 1.75 to 2.25 inches.
• Diet: Adults primarily feed on tree sap and rotting fruit, while caterpillars feed on hackberry leaves.
• Reproduction: Female American Snouts lay their eggs on hackberry trees, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the tree.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Snout is around 7 to 8 months.
• Host Plants: The larvae of American Snouts feed almost exclusively on hackberry trees.

Although American Snouts feed on a wide variety of foods, including tree sap and rotting fruit, the caterpillars of this species feed almost exclusively on hackberry tree leaves.

Female American Snouts lay their eggs on hackberry trees, and larvae feed on the leaves as they develop.

Despite their distinctive appearance, American Snouts have a relatively long lifespan, with an average of 7 to 8 months.

They have an important role in the ecosystem as pollinators and food for other animals. Additionally, hackberry trees benefit from American Snouts’ larvae feeding on their leaves, helping to control the population within the ecosystem.

American Snouts are a unique and distinct species of butterfly found throughout Texas, with their distinctive long snouts and grayish-brown wings with white spots.

They play an essential role in the ecosystem as pollinators and food for other animals, and rely almost exclusively on hackberry tree leaves as their host plant for larvae.

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

Mourning Cloaks are a species of butterfly native to Texas. They have dark brown wings with blue spots along the edge and a yellow border, making them easily identifiable.

They can be found in wooded areas and open fields near rivers and streams.

• Habitat: Mourning Cloaks can be found in wooded areas and open fields near rivers and streams.
• Appearance: Adult Mourning Cloaks are large, with dark brown wings and blue spots along the edge, and a yellow border.
• Size: The wingspan of the butterfly ranges from 2 to 4 inches.
• Diet: Mourning Cloaks feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar from flowers.
• Reproduction: Female Mourning Cloaks lay their eggs on host plants such as willow or cottonwood trees, and the larvae feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Mourning Cloak is around 10 months.
• Host Plants: The larvae of Mourning Cloaks feed on the leaves of plants in the willow and cottonwood families.

Although Mourning Cloaks feed on a wide variety of foods, they commonly feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar from flowers.

Female Mourning Cloaks lay their eggs on host plants such as willow or cottonwood trees. Then, the larvae feed on the leaves of the host plant until they are ready to pupate.

Mourning Cloaks have a relatively long lifespan of around 10 months, during which they mate and reproduce to continue the species’ existence.

They are an important pollinator and provide a food source for other animals in the ecosystem. Mourning Cloak larvae help control populations of willow and cottonwood trees, making them essential to the ecosystem.

Mourning Cloaks are a unique and distinct species of butterfly native to Texas, with their large, dark brown wings with blue spots and a yellow border.

They play an important role in the ecosystem as pollinators and food for other animals and control the population of willow and cottonwood trees with their larvae.

Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia)

Variegated Fritillaries are a species of butterfly found throughout Texas. They have orange-brown wings with black markings and a distinctive row of white spots on the forewing.

They can be found in open fields, meadows, and gardens, as well as wooded areas with host plants.

• Habitat: Variegated Fritillaries can be found in open fields, meadows, and gardens, as well as wooded areas with host plants.
• Appearance: Adult Variegated Fritillaries have orange-brown wings with black markings and a distinctive row of white spots on the forewing.
• Size: The wingspan of the butterfly ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: Both adults and caterpillars of Variegated Fritillaries feed on a wide variety of flowers, including sagebrush and rabbitbrush, as well as other plants like violets and legumes.
• Reproduction: Female Variegated Fritillaries lay their eggs on the host plants, which include several species in the legume family.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Variegated Fritillary is around 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: The larvae of Variegated Fritillaries feed on plants in the legume family, including wisteria, clover, and lupine.

Both adults and caterpillars of Variegated Fritillaries feed on a wide variety of flowers, including sagebrush and rabbitbrush, as well as other plants like violets and legumes.

Female Variegated Fritillaries lay their eggs on host plants in the legume family, including wisteria, clover, and lupine. The larvae feed on the leaves of these host plants as they grow.

Despite their short lifespan of around 2 weeks, Variegated Fritillaries play an important role in pollination and provide a food source for other animals in the ecosystem.

Caterpillars of the species help control the population of host plants, contributing to the ecosystem’s balance.

Variegated Fritillaries are a common species of butterfly found throughout Texas with their orange-brown wings with black markings and row of white spots on the forewing.

They play an essential role in pollination, with both adults and caterpillars contributing to the process.

They rely on host plants in the legume family for reproduction and larvae feeding, making them an essential part of the ecosystem’s balance.

Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)

The Spicebush Swallowtail is a common butterfly species in Texas. It can be found in Eastern deciduous forests, swamps, and riparian areas.

• Habitat: Spicebush Swallowtails can be found in wooded areas, forests, and along streams and rivers.
• Appearance: Adult Spicebush Swallowtails have black wings with blue markings and a row of orange spots, while the undersides of the wings are brownish-red.
• Size: The wingspan of the butterfly ranges from 3 to 4 inches.
• Diet: Spicebush Swallowtails rely on a variety of flowers for nectar, and the larvae feed on the leaves of spicebush and sassafras trees.
• Reproduction: Female Spicebush Swallowtails lay their eggs on the underside of the leaves of spicebush and sassafras trees, and the larvae feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Spicebush Swallowtail is around 1 to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: The larvae of Spicebush Swallowtails feed on the leaves of spicebush and sassafras trees.

They are black in color with a greenish-blue iridescent hind wing and bright orange spots along the margin.

The undersides of the wings are brownish, with pale blue scaling and a row of orange spots. The wingspan ranges from 3.0 – 4.5 inches.

Adults feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars eat the leaves of the spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and occasionally sassafras (Sassafras albidum).

Females lay small, round eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about a week, and the caterpillars feed for about a month before pupating.

The average lifespan of the Spicebush Swallowtail is between 1-2 weeks. The females lay their eggs on the leaves of the host plant and continue the cycle of life.

If you want to attract this butterfly species to your garden, plant some spicebush plants. They are beautiful and provide a valuable source of food for the caterpillars.

Checkered White (Pontia protodice)

The Checkered White is a small, white butterfly species that can be found in open fields, pastures, gardens and roadsides in Texas.

• Habitat: Found in open fields, pastures, gardens and roadsides.
• Appearance: White wings with black margins and a series of black check marks on their topside. The undersides of the wings are much paler.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 1.75 – 2.25 inches.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of various plants, including members of the mustard family.
• Reproduction: Females lay small, white eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about 4 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-3 weeks before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for 1-2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Members of the mustard family (Brassicaceae).

They have black margins and a series of black check marks on their topside, while the undersides of the wings are much paler. Their wingspan ranges from 1.75 – 2.25 inches.

Adult Checkered Whites feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of various plants, including members of the mustard family (Brassicaceae).

Females lay small, white eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about 4 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-3 weeks before pupating.

The average lifespan of the Checkered White butterfly is between 1-2 weeks. They are a simple yet elegant addition to any garden or natural area.

Planting members of the mustard family as host plants for their caterpillars would be the perfect way to attract this butterfly species.

Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus)

The Gray Hairstreak is a small butterfly species found in fields, meadows, gardens, and woodland clearings in Texas.

• Habitat: Found in fields, meadows, gardens, and woodland clearings.
• Appearance: Gray-brown with a white-edged black spot near the tip of each wing. The undersides of the wings have a row of orange spots and a diagonal white stripe.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 1 – 1.5 inches.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from a wide variety of flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves and flowers of various plants, including members of the pea family.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the flowers or leaves of the host plant. The eggs hatch in about a week, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-4 weeks before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for 1-2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Members of the pea family (Fabaceae).

They are gray-brown with a white-edged black spot near the tip of each wing. The undersides of the wings have a row of orange spots and a diagonal white stripe.

Their wingspan ranges from 1 – 1.5 inches.

Adult Gray Hairstreaks feed on nectar from a wide variety of flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves and flowers of various plants, including members of the pea family (Fabaceae).

Females lay their eggs on the flowers or leaves of the host plant. The eggs hatch in about a week, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-4 weeks before pupating.

The average lifespan of the Gray Hairstreak butterfly is between 1-2 weeks. They can be easily attracted to gardens or natural areas by planting members of the pea family as host plants.

Gray Hairstreaks provide a delicate yet stunning touch to any environment they inhabit.

Orange Sulphur (Colias eurytheme)

The Orange Sulphur is a common butterfly species found in fields, meadows, and open grassland habitats throughout Texas.

• Habitat: Found in fields, meadows, and open grassland habitats.
• Appearance: Males are bright orange with yellow markings, while females are paler with a white or yellowish color. Both sexes have black wing margins and spots.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 1.25 – 2 inches.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of various plants in the pea family.
• Reproduction: Females lay pale-yellow eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about a week, and the caterpillars feed for about 3-4 weeks before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for only a few days.
• Host Plants: Members of the pea family (Fabaceae).

Males are bright orange with yellow markings, while females have a paler color with a white or yellowish hue.

Both sexes have black wing margins and spots, with a wingspan ranging from 1.25 – 2 inches.

Adult Orange Sulphurs feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of various plants in the pea family (Fabaceae).

Females lay pale-yellow eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about a week, and the caterpillars feed for about 3-4 weeks before pupating.

The average lifespan of the Orange Sulphur butterfly is only a few days, which makes their presence even more special.

Their bright orange color adds some vibrancy to any natural area or garden they inhabit. Planting members of the pea family can attract these butterflies, providing the chance to admire their beauty in person.

Red-spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis)

The Red-spotted Purple is a beautiful butterfly species commonly found in deciduous and mixed deciduous-coniferous woods throughout Texas.

• Habitat: Found in deciduous and mixed deciduous-coniferous woods.
• Appearance: Black with iridescent blue scaling on the upper wings, and striking red-orange spots along the edges of the lower wings. The undersides are dark and mimic the appearance of a dead leaf.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 2.5 – 4 inches.
• Diet: Adults feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar from flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various trees, such as cherry and willow.
• Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about 5 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 3-4 weeks before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for 1-2 months.
• Host Plants: Various members of the Betulaceae, Caprifoliaceae, and Salicaceae families.

Their wings are black with iridescent blue scaling on the upper wings, and striking red-orange spots along the edges of the lower wings.

The undersides of their wings are dark, and they mimic the appearance of a dead leaf. Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 – 4 inches.

Adult Red-spotted Purples feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar from flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various trees, such as cherry and willow.

Females lay their eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about 5 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 3-4 weeks before pupating.

The average lifespan of the Red-spotted Purple butterfly is between 1-2 months, making it one of the longer-living butterfly species.

The Red-spotted Purple is a highly cherished butterfly in Texas and adds a breathtaking touch to any natural area. Planting trees such as cherry or willow can be a great way to attract this butterfly species.

Bordered Patch (Chlosyne lacinia)

The Bordered Patch butterfly is a common species found in open fields, meadows, and scrub areas throughout Texas.

• Habitat: Found in open fields, meadows, and scrub areas.
• Appearance: Orange-brown wings with black borders and white spots along the margins. The undersides are mottled and provide excellent camouflage.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 1.5 – 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various plants in the aster family.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the undersides of host plant leaves. The eggs hatch in about 4 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-3 weeks before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for about a week.
• Host Plants: Various members of the Asteraceae family.

Their wings are orange-brown with black borders and white spots along the margins. The undersides of their wings are mottled and provide excellent camouflage.

Their wingspan ranges from 1.5 – 2.5 inches.

Adult Bordered Patches feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various plants in the aster family (Asteraceae).

Females lay eggs on the undersides of host plant leaves. The eggs hatch in about 4 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-3 weeks before pupating.

The Bordered Patch butterfly only lives for about a week, but during that time, they provide a graceful touch to any natural area.

Planting members of the aster family can attract this butterfly species, allowing for the opportunity to witness the beauty of their wings up close.

Common Mestra (Mestra amymone)

The Common Mestra butterfly can be found in open fields, meadows, and the edges of woodlands and forests throughout Texas.

• Habitat: Found in open fields, meadows, and the edges of woodlands and forests.
• Appearance: The wings are dark brown with a series of pale spots arranged in a line. The undersides are lighter in color and have a similar pattern.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 2.5 – 3 inches.
• Diet: Adults feed on the nectar from various flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various plants in the acanthus family.
• Reproduction: Females lay small, white eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about 4-5 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-3 weeks before pupating.
• Lifespan: Adults typically live for only a few days.
• Host Plants: Various members of the Acanthaceae family.

Their wings are dark brown with a series of pale spots arranged in a line. The undersides of their wings are lighter in color and have a similar pattern.

Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 – 3 inches.

Adult Common Mestras feed on the nectar from various flowers, while caterpillars feed on the leaves of various plants in the acanthus family (Acanthaceae).

Females lay small, white eggs on the host plant. The eggs hatch in about 4-5 days, and the caterpillars feed for about 2-3 weeks before pupating.

Despite their beauty, the Common Mestra butterfly only lives for a few days. However, seeing one up close can provide a lifetime of memories.

Planting members of the acanthus family can attract this butterfly species and entice them to stay in your garden a little bit longer.

The Common Mestra butterfly serves as a reminder that the beauty of nature can be fleeting but worth it.

Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)

The Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes) is an impressive butterfly that can be found in fields, woodlands and forests in Texas.

• Habitat: Giant Swallowtails are found in the woodlands, fields, and forests spanning from the Eastern United States all the way to Central America, including parts of Texas.
• Appearance: The Giant Swallowtail is the largest butterfly in Texas. They have a wingspan of 4 to 6 inches, and their wings are black with a yellow band and blue spots.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 4 to 6 inches.
• Diet: The Giant Swallowtail feeds on citrus fruit nectar, tree sap, and flowering plants such as mustards, milkweeds, and clovers.
• Reproduction: Female Giant Swallowtails lay their eggs under the leaves of host plants. Their larvae look like bird droppings and feed on leaves and stems of orange, lemon, and lime trees.
• Lifespan: The Giant Swallowtail butterfly lives for about 7 to 14 days.
• Host Plants: Citrus trees, prickly ash, and Hercules club are among the host plants for the Giant Swallowtail butterfly.

It is the largest butterfly species in the state with a wingspan that ranges from 4 to 6 inches. Its wings are black with a yellow band and blue spots, making it easy to spot amongst surroundings.

Giant Swallowtails have a varied diet, feeding on citrus fruit nectar, tree sap and flowering plants such as mustards, milkweeds, and clovers.

Female Giant Swallowtails lay their eggs under the leaves of host plants where the larvae resemble bird droppings and feed on the leaves and stems of citrus trees, prickly ash, and Hercules club.

The Giant Swallowtail butterfly’s lifespan is short, living for about 7 to 14 days.

If you want to see a Giant Swallowtail butterfly, look for them in your local woodlands, fields and forests. They are truly an impressive sight to behold.

Sleepy Orange (Eurema nicippe)

Sleepy Orange (Eurema nicippe) butterflies are common in many habitats including fields, gardens, and roadsides in Texas.

• Habitat: Sleepy Orange butterflies are found in many habitats including fields, gardens, and roadsides.
• Appearance: The Sleepy Orange butterfly is a small, bright orange butterfly with black wingtips that span approximately 1.5-2.5 inches.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: The adult Sleepy Orange feed on nectar while their larvae feed on plants such as clover, alfalfa, and pea family plants.
• Reproduction: Female Sleepy Orange butterflies lay their eggs singly on the undersides of host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: The Sleepy Orange butterfly lives for about 2 to 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Partridge pea, coffee senna, casia, wild sennas, clover.

They are a small butterfly with bright orange wings, black wingtips, and a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches.

Adult Sleepy Oranges feed on nectar while their larvae feed on plants such as clover, alfalfa, and pea family plants.

Female Sleepy Orange butterflies lay their eggs singly on the undersides of host plant leaves. The Sleepy Orange butterfly has a relatively short lifespan of about 2 to 3 weeks.

If you’d like to see Sleepy Orange butterflies, try visiting fields, gardens, roadsides, or other suitable habitats with clovers, alfalfa, and pea family plants.

They are a colorful and charming addition to any outdoor setting in Texas.

Lyside Sulphur (Kricogonia lyside)

The Lyside Sulphur (Kricogonia lyside) butterfly is a common sight in many Texas habitats including fields, gardens, and open woods.

• Habitat: The Lyside Sulphur butterfly can be found in many habitats including fields, gardens, and open woods.
• Appearance: Lyside Sulphur butterflies are small, with bright yellow or greenish-yellow wings and with black bands and markings.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 1.25 to 1.75 inches.
• Diet: The adult Lyside Sulphur feeds on flower nectar, and their larvae feed on legume plants like clovers, beans, and alfalfa.
• Reproduction: Female Lyside Sulphur butterflies lay their eggs on host legume plants.
• Lifespan: The Lyside Sulphur butterfly lives for about 1 to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Porlieria angustifolia.

They are relatively small, with yellow or greenish-yellow wings with black bands and markings.

Lyside Sulphur butterflies feed on flower nectar while their larvae feed on legume plants like clovers, beans, and alfalfa.

Female Lyside Sulphur butterflies lay their eggs on the host legume plants. The Lyside Sulphur butterfly has a short lifespan of about 1 to 2 weeks.

If you’d like to see Lyside Sulphur butterflies, look for them in fields, gardens, and open woods where there are plenty of legume plants.

These cheery, yellow-green butterflies are a joy to watch in any outdoor setting.

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)

The American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) butterfly is a common sight in many habitats in Texas, including fields, meadows, gardens, forests, and wetlands.

• Habitat: The American Lady butterfly can be found in many habitats including fields, meadows, gardens, forests, and wetlands.
• Appearance: The American Lady is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of approximately 2 inches, colored with red, orange, and brown tones, with white and black spots on their wings.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 2 to 2.75 inches.
• Diet: The American Lady feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, and their larvae feed on plants like thistles and sunflowers.
• Reproduction: Female American Lady butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The American Lady butterfly lives for about 6 to 12 months.
• Host Plants: Sweet everlasting, Pearly everlasting, ironweed, Plantain-leaved pussy toes.

They have a medium-sized wingspan of approximately 2 inches and are colored with vibrant red, orange, and brown hues, with white and black spots on their wings.

American Lady butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while their larvae feed on plants like thistles and sunflowers.

Female American Lady butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and their lifespan is relatively long, living for about 6 to 12 months.

If you’re interested in spotting American Lady butterflies, try looking for them in fields, meadows, gardens, forests, and wetlands. They are beautiful and graceful butterflies and a popular sight in many Texas outdoor settings.

Little Yellow (Eurema lisa)

The Little Yellow (Eurema lisa) butterfly is a common sight in many Texas habitats, including fields, gardens, and roadsides.

• Habitat: The Little Yellow butterfly can be found in many habitats in Texas, including fields, gardens, and roadsides.
• Appearance: Little Yellow butterflies are small, with bright yellow wings and dark markings on their forewings.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 1.25 to 1.5 inches.
• Diet: The Little Yellow feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, and their larvae feed on plants like clovers and alfalfa.
• Reproduction: Female Little Yellow butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The Little Yellow butterfly lives for about 1 to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: Partridge pea.

They are small butterflies with bright yellow wings and dark markings on their forewings.

Little Yellow butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while their larvae feed on plants like clovers and alfalfa.

Female Little Yellow butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and their lifespan is relatively short, living for about 1 to 2 weeks.

If you’d like to see Little Yellow butterflies, try looking for them in fields, gardens, and along roadsides. These charming and small butterflies add a pop of yellow to any outdoor setting and are sure to brighten your day.

Julia Heliconian (Dryas iulia)

The Julia Heliconian (Dryas iulia) butterfly is commonly spotted in Texas gardens and woodlands.

• Habitat: The Julia Heliconian butterfly is found in many habitats in Texas, including gardens and woodlands.
• Appearance: The Julia Heliconian has bright orange wings with black lines and markings.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: The Julia Heliconian feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, and their larvae feed on passionflower plants.
• Reproduction: Female Julia Heliconian butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of passionflower plants.
• Lifespan: The Julia Heliconian butterfly lives for about 4 to 5 weeks.
• Host Plants: Corkystem passionflower, Whiteflower passionflower.

This butterfly has bright orange wings with black lines and markings, making them easy to distinguish from other species.

Julia Heliconian butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while their larvae feed on passionflower plants.

Female Julia Heliconian butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of passionflower plants. The lifespan of the Julia Heliconian butterfly is relatively short, living for about 4 to 5 weeks.

If you’d like to see this beautiful butterfly, try looking for them in gardens and woodlands where passionflower plants are abundant.

The Julia Heliconian is a stunning butterfly that will surprise and delight you with its bright, vibrant colors.

Goatweed Leafwing (Anaea andria)

The Goatweed Leafwing (Anaea andria) butterfly is another species commonly found in many Texas habitats, including open forests, woodlands, and fields.

• Habitat: The Goatweed Leafwing butterfly is found in many habitats in Texas, including open forests, woodlands, and fields.
• Appearance: The Goatweed Leafwing has brown wings with orange or yellow markings and a wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: The Goatweed Leafwing feeds on sap from trees and shrubs, and their larvae feed on leaves of plants like Croton.
• Reproduction: Female Goatweed Leafwing butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The Goatweed Leafwing butterfly lives for about 1 to 2 weeks.
• Host Plants: goatweeds.

These butterflies have brown wings with orange or yellow markings and a wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.

Goatweed Leafwing butterflies feed on sap from trees and shrubs, while their larvae feed on the leaves of plants like Croton.

Female Goatweed Leafwing butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and their lifespan is relatively short, living for about 1 to 2 weeks.

If you’d like to spot Goatweed Leafwing butterflies in Texas, try looking for them in open forests, woodlands, and fields where they are known to reside.

These butterflies are distinct with their unique coloring, and spotting them can be a treat when outdoors.

Tawny Emperor (Asterocampa clyton)

The Tawny Emperor butterfly (Asterocampa clyton) is commonly found in oak-hickory forests, open woodlands, and along streams in Texas.

• Habitat: The Tawny Emperor butterfly is commonly found in oak-hickory forests, open woodlands, and along streams.
• Appearance: The Tawny Emperor has dark brown wings with white spots and a wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Size: Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Diet: The Tawny Emperor feeds on rotting fruit, animal droppings, and tree sap, and their larvae feed on the leaves of trees like oak and hickory.
• Reproduction: Female Tawny Emperor butterflies lay their eggs on leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The Tawny Emperor butterfly lives for about 7 to 10 days.
• Host Plants: Hackberries, sugarberry, and elm trees.

These butterflies are dark brown with white spots and have a wingspan that ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches.

Tawny Emperors feed on rotting fruit, animal droppings, and tree sap, while their larvae feed on the leaves of trees such as oak and hickory.

Female Tawny Emperor butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, and their lifespan is relatively short, living for about 7 to 10 days.

If you are interested in observing Tawny Emperor butterflies, try looking for them in oak-hickory forests, open woodlands, or areas along streams where they are known to reside.

These distinct butterflies add a certain flair to the Texas outdoor setting when spotted.

Southern Dogface (Zerene cesonia)

The Southern Dogface butterfly is a common species found in Texas, often seen in prairies, fields, and roadsides, especially near clover.

• Habitat: Prairies, fields, and roadsides, especially near clover.
• Appearance: A yellow, tear-shaped spot on the wings, resembling a dog’s head. The wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Size: Wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers, including wildflowers and garden plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly on host plants. Caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plants before entering pupation.
• Lifespan: Adult Southern Dogface butterflies live for about two weeks.
• Host Plants: Members of the legume family, including clovers and alfalfa.

It is named for the yellow, tear-shaped spot on its wings that resembles a dog’s face. The wingspan of this butterfly typically ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches.

The Southern Dogface feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, including wildflowers and garden plants. Females lay eggs singly on host plants, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plants before entering pupation.

Adult Southern Dogface butterflies have a lifespan of about two weeks. They are typically found near members of the legume family, including clovers and alfalfa, which serve as their host plants.

Conclusion

Texas is home to a diverse range of butterfly species, from the iconic Monarch Butterfly to the lesser-known Lyside Sulphur and Goatweed Leafwing.

Whether you’re a seasoned butterfly watcher or a curious nature enthusiast, exploring the natural beauty of Texas is an adventure worth taking.

Have you seen any of these butterfly species in Texas? Leave a comment and share your experiences!