50 Butterfly Species in USA

Discover the beauty and diversity of butterflies in the USA with this guide to 50 remarkable species. Across the nation, these winged wonders display stunning patterns, colors, and behaviors.

Get ready to explore and appreciate the fascinating world of butterflies that call the United States home.

Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

Monarch butterflies are one of the most recognizable and well-known butterfly species in the United States. They are known for their spectacular annual migration, which covers thousands of miles and spans multiple generations.

monarch-butterfly

Habitat: These butterflies can be found all over the US, especially in meadows, fields, and gardens.
Appearance: They have striking orange and black wings with white spots along the edges, which make them easily recognizable.
Size: Monarchs have a wingspan of around 4 inches, making them one of the larger butterfly species.
Diet: The adults primarily feed on nectar from various flowers, while the caterpillars feast exclusively on milkweed plants.
Reproduction: Monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed plants, which serve as a safe and nutritious habitat for the developing caterpillars.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Monarch butterfly varies, with some living a few weeks while others, like the migrating generation, may live up to 9 months.
Host Plants: Milkweed plants are essential for the Monarch’s survival, as they serve as the sole source of food for their caterpillars and provide the necessary toxins to deter predators.

Monarch butterflies are a fascinating and integral species in the natural ecosystem of the United States.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus)

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a captivating species, known for their grace and beauty in flight.

Here’s a closer look at these enchanting butterflies:

Habitat: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails are primarily found in the eastern United States, thriving in forests, woodlands, and gardens.
Appearance: This butterfly is easily recognized by its large yellow wings with black tiger-like stripes. Blue and orange spots are present near the tail end of the wings.
Size: With a wingspan ranging from 7.9 to 14 cm (3.1 to 5.5 inches), the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is considered a large butterfly.
Diet: The adults feed on nectar from various flowers, while the larvae are known to munch on leaves of trees such as the wild cherry, tulip tree, and willow.
Reproduction: Females lay about 100-200 eggs on host plants, giving birth to the next generation of caterpillars within a week.
Lifespan: Their short lives span from 6 to 14 days in the adult stage, leaving them limited time to mate and reproduce.
Host Plants: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails primarily lay eggs on deciduous trees such as wild cherry, tulip tree, and willow, providing food and shelter for their offspring.

Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)

The Black Swallowtail is a stunning butterfly species found across the United States. With its unique appearance, the Black Swallowtail is a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Let’s dive into some fascinating details about this charming creature:

Habitat: Black Swallowtails can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, gardens, and woodland edges.
Appearance: This butterfly features black wings with vibrant yellow and blue markings, and small red-orange spots within the blue area on their hind wings.
Size: With a wingspan of 3 to 4 inches, the Black Swallowtail is considered a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: The primary food source for adult Black Swallowtails is nectar from flowers like milkweed, thistle, and clover.
Reproduction: The female butterfly lays her eggs on suitable host plants, ensuring a proper start for the next generation.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Black Swallowtail in the wild is about 10 to 14 days, although some individuals may live longer.
Host Plants: Their caterpillars feed on plants from the carrot family, including parsley, dill, and fennel.

In your quest to spot this lovely butterfly, keep an eye out for it fluttering around colorful flowers in meadows, gardens, and woodlands.

Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)

The Spicebush Swallowtail is a beautiful and fascinating butterfly species that you may come across in the USA.

It gets its name from its close association with spicebush plants, which serve as its primary host plant.

This mesmerizing butterfly displays some interesting characteristics, making it a delight to observe and learn about.

Habitat: Spicebush Swallowtails are commonly found in deciduous woodlands, forest edges, and moist meadows of the eastern United States.
Appearance: They boast a distinctive color pattern of striking blue, green, and black scales, with the male being more iridescent and the female exhibiting an alluring blue band.
Size: Their wingspan can range from 3.5 to 5 inches, making them a medium to large-sized butterfly species.
Diet: Adults feast on nectar gathered from a variety of flowers, whereas the larvae feed primarily on the leaves of their host plants.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the underside of spicebush or sassafras plant leaves, which will serve as the primary food source for the emerging caterpillars.
Lifespan: They enjoy a relatively short adult life of around 2 to 3 weeks, while their entire life cycle from egg to adult takes about a month.
Host Plants: Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) serve as the main host plants for these captivating butterflies.

Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor)

The Pipevine Swallowtail is a fascinating butterfly species that you can find in various regions of the United States.

Let’s learn more about this charming creature:

Habitat: These butterflies predominantly inhabit woodlands, meadows, and gardens.
Appearance: They boast striking blue-to-black wings adorned with white spots along the edges, while the underside of their wings is a beautiful iridescent blue or blue-green.
Size: Adult Pipevine Swallowtails have a wingspan of 2.5 – 5.5 inches, making them medium-sized butterflies.
Diet: They primarily feed on nectar from flowers such as thistles, milkweeds, and lantanas.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the leaves of their host plants, ensuring their caterpillars have a readily available food source as they grow.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Pipevine Swallowtail is 6 – 14 days as an adult butterfly.
Host Plants: These butterflies use pipevine plants (such as Dutchman’s pipe and Virginia snakeroot) as their host plants where they lay eggs and the caterpillars consume them for sustenance.

Remember to keep an eye out for the Pipevine Swallowtail in your local woodlands and gardens.

They are not only a delightful sight to behold but also play an essential role in pollinating plants in the ecosystem.

Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus)

The Zebra Swallowtail, scientifically known as Eurytides marcellus, is a fascinating butterfly species native to the United States.

With its vibrant coloration and unique wing shape, this butterfly is sure to catch your eye as it flutters through the air.

Below, you’ll find some key information about the Zebra Swallowtail:

Habitat: Zebra Swallowtails are commonly found in various habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and near riverbanks. They are predominantly present in the eastern United States.
Appearance: The primary feature distinguishing this butterfly is its striking zebra-like black and white stripes on the wings. There is also a distinctive elongated tail extending from the hindwings.
Size: Adult Zebra Swallowtails can reach a wingspan of around 3.5-4 inches, making them a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: These butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowering plants like lantana, milkweed, wild cherry, and elderberry.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on young, tender leaves of the host plant, where the caterpillars will later feed and grow.
Lifespan: Adult Zebra Swallowtails have a short lifespan of about one month.
Host Plants: The primary host plant for Zebra Swallowtail caterpillars is the pawpaw tree (Asimina triloba), which helps them in their growth and development.

Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)

The Giant Swallowtail is an impressive species of butterfly that can be found across the United States.

Let’s dive into some interesting facts about this amazing butterfly:

Habitat: Giant Swallowtails prefer moist environments, such as swamps, riverbanks, and lush gardens. They can be found throughout the eastern United States, parts of the Midwest, and some areas of the Southwest.
Appearance: These butterflies have beautiful yellow and black-striped wings with a distinctive tail-like extension, which is why they’re called swallowtails. A blue and orange spot is typically present on the lower wing.
Size: The Giant Swallowtail is the largest butterfly species in North America, with an average wingspan ranging from 4 to 6 inches.
Diet: These butterflies feed on nectar from various flowering plants but are particularly fond of citrus trees.
Reproduction: A female Giant Swallowtail will lay her eggs on the undersides of leaves. It takes about 10 days for the eggs to hatch into caterpillars, which are camouflaged as bird droppings to avoid predators.
Lifespan: The adult butterfly typically lives for about one month.
Host Plants: Giant Swallowtail caterpillars feed on a wide range of plants, including citrus trees, prickly ash, and hop tree.

Now that you know more about the Giant Swallowtail, be sure to keep an eye out for these striking butterflies when exploring nature.

Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)

The Gulf Fritillary, a striking orange butterfly, can be found across the southern regions of the United States.

With their signature orange wings specked with black and white markings, these butterflies add a beautiful touch to any backyard or garden.

Habitat: The Gulf Fritillary is commonly found in the Southern US, Mexico, Central America, and South America. It prefers open, sunlit areas such as meadows, gardens, and fields.
Appearance: The Gulf Fritillary has bright orange wings with black markings and silver-white spots on the underside. The wings are long and slender, giving the butterfly an elegant look.
Size: The average wingspan of a Gulf Fritillary ranges between 2.5 and 3.5 inches, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: Adult Gulf Fritillaries feed on the nectar of various flowers, including Lantana, Bougainvillea, and Passionflower.
Reproduction: Males and females mate in the spring and summer months. The females then lay single eggs on the host plant, usually a variety of Passionflower.
Lifespan: The adult Gulf Fritillary has a relatively short lifespan, averaging just 2 to 3 weeks.
Host Plants: Passionflowers (specifically Passiflora incarnata) are the main host plants for Gulf Fritillary caterpillars, with the leaves providing a food source for the growing larvae.

Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia)

Variegated Fritillary is a medium-sized, brightly colored butterfly found across the USA.

Known for its distinctive markings and fast, low flight, this beautiful species belongs to the family Nymphalidae.

Habitat: The Variegated Fritillary prefers open, sunny areas such as meadows, fields, gardens, and roadsides.
Appearance: The butterfly features a striking pattern of orange and black on its wings, with a row of white spots on the outer edge. The underside of the wings has a distinct pattern, too, featuring a grayish-brown hue with intricate markings.
Size: The Variegated Fritillary has a wingspan of about 1.75 to 3 inches (4.5 to 7.6 cm).
Diet: Adults feed on the nectar of various flowers, such as milkweed, thistles, and asters, while caterpillars munch on a variety of plants.
Reproduction: Females lay their tiny, ribbed eggs on the host plants, typically on the underside of the leaves.
Lifespan: The Variegated Fritillary has a short life span, usually living for a few weeks as an adult butterfly.
Host Plants: Some common host plants for the Variegated Fritillary caterpillars include violets, passionflowers, and flax.

Red-Spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis)

The Red-spotted Purple is a fascinating butterfly species that you can find throughout the United States. This butterfly is admired for its stellar appearance and intriguing behavior.

Let’s delve deeper into the characteristics of the Red-spotted Purple:

Habitat: These butterflies inhabit deciduous woodlands, open spaces, and even suburban gardens, making them versatile in various settings.
Appearance: The Red-spotted Purple boasts a striking deep blue color with red spots on the undersides of their wings, giving them their unique name.
Size: Featuring a wingspan of 3 to 3.5 inches, they’re considered medium-sized butterflies.
Diet: Adult butterflies feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and sometimes nectar from flowers.
Reproduction: The female butterfly lays her eggs on host plants, and the larvae go through five growth stages before pupating and emerging as adults.
Lifespan: The adult Red-spotted Purple has a relatively short lifespan of around 2-4 weeks.
Host Plants: The caterpillars can feed on a variety of host plants such as willows, poplars, and cherry trees.

The Red-spotted Purple is an alluring butterfly species that can be found in diverse habitats across the United States.

Its vibrant color and captivating behavior make it a sight to behold for both entomologists and naturalists alike.

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

The Mourning Cloak butterfly is a fascinating species, boasting beautiful colors and intriguing behavior.

Here, we’ll explore some of the key aspects of this magnificent butterfly:

Habitat: Mourning Cloaks are widely distributed across North America, occupying diverse habitats such as forests, meadows, and gardens.
Appearance: Their wings are deep maroon with yellow borders and clusters of iridescent blue spots, which creates a striking contrast against the dark background.
Size: With a wingspan of 2.0 – 4.0 inches, this butterfly is relatively large for a North American species.
Diet: Adult Mourning Cloaks prefer to feed on tree sap rather than nectar, but they will also consume fruits and even feces if needed.
Reproduction: Female Mourning Cloaks lay their eggs in clusters around the twigs of host plants, commonly on willows and poplars.
Lifespan: Mourning Cloak butterflies can live up to 11 months, which is relatively long compared to other butterfly species.
Host Plants: The caterpillars primarily feed on willow, poplar, elm, and birch trees, making these plants essential for their development.

With their bold appearance and interesting behavior, Mourning Cloak butterflies are a captivating species you’ll want to keep an eye out for on your next nature walk.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

Painted Lady, scientifically known as Vanessa cardui, is indeed a stunning butterfly that is native to the United States. This species is known for its beautiful appearance and fascinating life cycle.

Here’s a quick rundown of some fascinating facts about the Painted Lady:

Habitat: The Painted Lady can be found across a variety of habitats, including meadows, parks, gardens, and other open areas.
Appearance: This butterfly boasts an exquisite pattern on its wings, combining shades of orange, black, and white on the upperside and a mottled gray underside.
Size: The Painted Lady has a wingspan that typically ranges from 2 to 2.9 inches.
Diet: Adult Painted Ladies feed on nectar from various flowering plants, while the caterpillars primarily feed on thistle plants.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs singly on the host plant, and the entire life cycle takes about a month to complete.
Lifespan: Adult Painted Ladies have a relatively short life, often living for only 2-4 weeks.
Host Plants: Thistles are the primary host plants for Painted Lady caterpillars, but they also feed on other plants such as hollyhocks, sunflowers, and mallow.

From its captivating colors to a dynamic life cycle, the Painted Lady is indeed a fascinating butterfly to explore and appreciate.

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)

The American Lady is a beautiful butterfly species native to the United States.

It is commonly found in various habitats and can often be seen gracefully fluttering its striking wings during the warm months.

Here’s a quick glance at some interesting facts about this captivating butterfly species:

Habitat: The American Lady prefers open, sunny areas such as fields, gardens, meadows, and forest clearings.
Appearance: It features a striking pattern of black and orange on its upper wings, while the underside of its wings has a more subtle, brown and gray pattern with several small, round “eyespots.”
Size: This butterfly species has a wingspan ranging from 1.75 to 2.40 inches, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: Adult American Ladies feed on nectar from various flowers, including milkweed, aster, and goldenrod. The caterpillars prefer to munch on plants from the sunflower family.
Reproduction: Females lay eggs individually on the host plant. The caterpillars that hatch eventually form a chrysalis, and adult butterflies emerge about two weeks later.
Lifespan: Adult American Ladies can live up to three weeks, with multiple generations born each year.
Host Plants: Plants from the sunflower family (Asteraceae) are popular host plants for the American Lady caterpillars. Some common examples are pearly everlasting and ironweed.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

The Red Admiral is a well-known and charismatic butterfly species that can be found throughout the USA.

It is quite adaptable and thrives in a variety of habitats, making it a fascinating species to observe and learn about.

Habitat: Red Admirals are found in various environments, such as woodlands, gardens, parks, and wetlands.
Appearance: These butterflies have striking black wings adorned with vivid red-orange bands and white spots along the tips of the forewings.
Size: Red Admirals have a wingspan of approximately 2 to 3 inches, making them medium-sized butterflies.
Diet: Adult Red Admirals feed on nectar from flowers, sap, and even rotting fruit.
Reproduction: Males will perch on tall structures to spot and court females. After mating, females lay their eggs on host plants.
Lifespan: Adults typically live for around 2 to 3 weeks, while the complete life cycle takes around 5 to 6 weeks.
Host Plants: Red Admirals lay their eggs on nettles, such as the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) and tall wild nettle (Urtica gracilis). The caterpillars feed on these host plants before transforming into pupae.

Buckeye (Junonia coenia)

The Buckeye butterfly, scientifically known as Junonia coenia, is a fascinating and colorful species that can be found throughout the United States.

This butterfly is known for its striking patterns and beautiful colors, making it a favorite among butterfly enthusiasts.

Habitat: The Buckeye prefers open, sunny areas with low vegetation like fields, meadows, and gardens.
Appearance: This species boasts large, eye-catching eyespots on its wings, along with bands of orange and brown on a rich, dark brown background.
Size: The Buckeye butterfly has a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, with females typically being larger than males.
Diet: Adult Buckeyes feed on nectar from various flowers, while caterpillars dine on the leaves of their host plants.
Reproduction: Female Buckeyes lay eggs singly on the host plant, usually on the underside of leaves or on the tip of leaves and stems.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Buckeye butterfly is around 10-14 days, depending on environmental factors and availability of resources.
Host Plants: Some common host plants for Buckeye caterpillars include snapdragon, plantain, and false foxglove.

Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis)

The Question Mark is a fascinating butterfly species found in the USA, particularly known for its unique wing markings.

Let’s dive deeper into its characteristics:

Habitat: Question Marks inhabit forest clearings, roadsides, and gardens, often near water sources.
Appearance: The vibrant orange wings have a striking pattern of black spots and wavy lines. Distinctive wing markings resembling a question mark give this butterfly its peculiar name.
Size: Medium size with a wingspan of 2-3 inches.
Diet: Adults enjoy nectar from various flowers but also feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and even animal dung.
Reproduction: Females lay green barrel-shaped eggs on the leaves of select host plants.
Lifespan: They have two generations per year, with a combined lifespan of approximately 6-7 months.
Host Plants: The caterpillars feed on the leaves and the fruit of a variety of trees and shrubs, including elm, hackberry, and nettle plants.

These fascinating butterflies are a perfect blend of beauty, uniqueness, and adaptability. With vibrant wing patterns and an intriguing name, Question Marks add a touch of wonder to our gardens.

Comma (Polygonia comma)

The Comma butterfly is a fascinating species that can be found across the United States. Its unique wing shape and coloring make it stand out from other butterflies.

Here is some information about this remarkable creature:

Habitat: Comma butterflies thrive in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and gardens. They prefer areas with trees and abundant flowering plants.
Appearance: The Comma has a distinct wing shape, with irregular edges that resemble torn leaves. Their wings display an orange and brown color pattern with dark spots. The underside of the wings features a white comma-shaped marking, giving this butterfly its name.
Size: Adult Commas have a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2.75 inches, making them a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: The Comma mainly feeds on nectar from flowers, but they also enjoy tree sap, overripe fruit, and even dung.
Reproduction: Female Commas lay their eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. The eggs hatch into spiny caterpillars that will feed on the leaves.
Lifespan: The adult Comma butterfly has a relatively short lifespan, living about two to four weeks.
Host Plants: The caterpillars’ host plants include hops, nettles, and elm trees. It is essential to conserve these plants to ensure the survival of the Comma butterfly.

Great Spangled Fritillary (Speyeria cybele)

The Great Spangled Fritillary is a beautiful butterfly with fascinating features that sets it apart from other species.

With striking colors and patterns, it never fails to capture the attention of butterfly enthusiasts.

Here are some key aspects about this butterfly species:

Habitat: They can be found in various habitats, including meadows, gardens, open woods, and along forest edges. This butterfly species is widespread across the United States and Canada.
Appearance: The wings boast a stunning pattern, with an orange-brown base color and intricate black markings. Their lower wings are adorned with metallic silver spots, which give them their name “spangled.”
Size: With a wingspan of about 2.5 to 4 inches, they are considered medium-sized butterflies.
Diet: They mainly feed on nectar from various flowers, such as milkweed and thistles.
Reproduction: Females lay small, yellow eggs on host plants in late summer, which then hatch into caterpillars.
Lifespan: Adult Great Spangled Fritillaries have a short lifespan of about 1 to 2 weeks.
Host Plants: The caterpillars feed on various types of violets, specifically the leaves of these plants, for proper development and growth.

Regal Fritillary (Speyeria idalia)

The Regal Fritillary is a striking and fascinating butterfly species you can find in the United States.

Its beautifully patterned wings combined with its interesting life cycle make it a species worth learning about.

Here are some quick facts about the Regal Fritillary to help you get to know this butterfly better:

Habitat: Primarily found in tallgrass prairies, as well as meadows and other grasslands.
Appearance: Wings are orange-brown with intricate black patterns; the underside consists of silvery spots on a dark background.
Size: Wingspan of 2.5 to 4 inches (63 to 102 mm).
Diet: Adults feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, thistles, and ironweed.
Reproduction: Females lay eggs singly or in clusters on or near host plants.
Lifespan: Adult Regal Fritillaries live for about 2 weeks.
Host Plants: Violet species, particularly the Prairie Violet (Viola pedatifida) and the Arrow-leaved Violet (Viola sagittata).

Now that you know a bit more about the Regal Fritillary, be sure to keep an eye out for this eye-catching species the next time you’re exploring a grassland or prairie.

And remember, it’s just one of the many incredible butterfly species you can find in the United States!

Diana Fritillary (Speyeria diana)

The Diana Fritillary is a stunning butterfly species found in the United States, known for its distinct and striking looks.

This captivating creature can be seen in certain regions, exhibiting behaviors that can be quite fascinating for butterfly enthusiasts.

Here, let’s discover some key facts about the Diana Fritillary:

Habitat: Found mainly in the southeastern United States, this butterfly thrives in a range of habitats such as deciduous or mixed woodlands, glades, and forest edges.
Appearance: Males are black with iridescent blue markings, while females display a more orange and brown color scheme with distinctive white spots on the wings.
Size: The Diana Fritillary has a wingspan of around 2.5 to 4 inches, making it one of the larger fritillary species.
Diet: Adult butterflies feed on nectar from various flowers, including milkweed and ironweed, while the caterpillars consume the leaves of violets.
Reproduction: Mating occurs in late summer, with females laying eggs on or near the host plants.
Lifespan: The adult butterfly lives for only a few weeks, whereas the earlier stages, from egg to pupa, can take up to a year.
Host Plants: Violet species (Viola spp.) serve as essential host plants for the Diana Fritillary caterpillars, providing the necessary nourishment for their development.

Meadow Fritillary (Boloria bellona)

The Meadow Fritillary, scientifically known as Boloria bellona, is a lovely butterfly species found across the United States.

With an astounding blend of colors and patterns on their wings, these creatures hold a unique charm.

Here are some fascinating aspects of the Meadow Fritillary (Boloria bellona) you might not be aware of:

Habitat: Meadow Fritillaries commonly inhabit grasslands, meadows, open spaces, and sometimes wetlands.
Appearance: Their wings showcase an attractive combination of orange, black, and yellowish-white shades. The underside of the wings is a striking mottled gray and brown.
Size: Meadow Fritillaries have a wingspan of around 1.5 to 2 inches (38-51mm), making them a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: As adults, these butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers, such as milkweed and thistles.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs in groups on the leaves of host plants. The eggs hatch into caterpillars that feed on the host plants until they develop into pupae.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Meadow Fritillary is 10-14 days in the adult stage, with the entire life cycle taking around a month to complete.
Host Plants: Their caterpillars primarily feed on violets, specifically the Viola species, which are abundant in their preferred habitat.

White Admiral (Limenitis arthemis arthemis)

The White Admiral is a unique, eye-catching butterfly, native to North America.

This sub-species of Limenitis arthemis belongs to the family Nymphalidae and is characterized by its stunning black and white wing pattern.

Here’s a quick overview of this amazing butterfly:

Habitat: Found in mixed woodland areas, especially near water sources, such as streams and ponds. You can easily spot them in deciduous and coniferous forests throughout the Eastern regions of the USA.
Appearance: The upper side of the wings features a striking contrast of black and white, with white bands crossing the black background. The underside is a mix of blue, gray, and white with red spots near the base.
Size: They have a wingspan of about 2.5 to 3.5 inches, making them a decently sized butterfly.
Diet: Adult White Admirals primarily feed on tree sap, rotting fruit, and occasionally nectar from flowers.
Reproduction: Females lay eggs, one at a time, on host plant leaves. Caterpillars hatch and start consuming the leaves as they grow.
Lifespan: Adults live for approximately two to three weeks during the summer months.
Host Plants: The main host plants include trees and shrubs such as wild cherry, aspen, poplar, and birch.

Viceroy (Limenitis archippus)

The Viceroy butterfly is a fascinating species, known for its remarkable resemblance to the Monarch butterfly. This mimicry serves as a survival mechanism, as predators avoid the Monarch due to its bitter taste.

Let’s explore the characteristics of the Viceroy butterfly:

Habitat: Viceroys are found in wetlands, meadows, and wooded areas, especially near water sources such as streams and marshes. They are common in the Eastern and Southern United States.
Appearance: Viceroys have orange wings with black veins and white spots, closely resembling the Monarch. The primary difference is a black band that runs across the hindwing, distinguishing the Viceroy from its doppelgänger.
Size: Adult Viceroys have a wingspan of about 2.5 to 3.2 inches, making them slightly smaller than Monarchs.
Diet: Viceroy adults feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars primarily consume the leaves of their host plants.
Reproduction: Female Viceroys lay eggs singly on the leaves of host plants. The caterpillars emerge and proceed through several instar stages before forming a chrysalis, eventually emerging as fully developed butterflies.
Lifespan: The Viceroy’s lifespan is relatively short, typically just a few weeks, allowing them to reproduce once or twice in a season.
Host Plants: Viceroys rely on plants from the willow, poplar, and cottonwood families for their survival as both adults (for nectar) and caterpillars (for food).

Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos)

The Pearl Crescent is a delightful butterfly species commonly found throughout the eastern United States.

With its fascinating patterns and colors, this butterfly is a beautiful sight to behold in gardens and natural habitats.

Let’s take a closer look at the Pearl Crescent:

Habitat: You can typically find Pearl Crescents in fields, meadows, open woodland edges, and other areas with plenty of wildflowers for nectar.
Appearance: Pearl Crescents are delightfully small and have bright, striking orange wings with black markings. The underside of their wings is pale with crescent-shaped markings, giving them their name.
Size: These butterflies have a wingspan ranging from 1 to 1.5 inches, making them quite small.
Diet: Pearl Crescents feed on nectar from a variety of wildflowers such as asters, milkweed, and goldenrod.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs in clusters on the leaves of host plants. The eggs hatch into caterpillars, which then feed on their host plant until they pupate and transform into adult butterflies.
Lifespan: Adult Pearl Crescents have a lifespan of about two to three weeks.
Host Plants: Their caterpillars primarily feed on asters, which are essential for the species’ reproductive success. Planting asters in your garden can help support and attract Pearl Crescents.

Remember to keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures in your local area and consider planting some asters to help them thrive!

Baltimore Checkerspot (Euphydryas phaeton)

The Baltimore Checkerspot is a fascinating butterfly species found predominantly in the eastern United States.

Its unique and striking color patterns make it an attractive sight for butterfly enthusiasts.

Let’s dive into some of its characteristics:

Habitat: Baltimore Checkerspots prefer damp habitats such as meadows, marshes, and wetlands. They can also be found in open wooded areas and along forest edges.
Appearance: This butterfly sports a striking pattern of orange, black, and white checkered wings. The upper side of its wings is adorned with bright orange spots on the margins, while the underside is a mix of orange and white with a row of black spots.
Size: The wingspan of the Baltimore Checkerspot ranges from 1.75 to 2.5 inches.
Diet: As adults, these butterflies enjoy nectar from various flowers such as milkweeds, thistles, and coneflowers. The caterpillars, on the other hand, feed on the leaves of their host plants.
Reproduction: Female Baltimore Checkerspots lay their eggs on host plants in clusters of several hundred. This follows the characteristic life cycle of egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, and adult butterfly.
Lifespan: The average adult Baltimore Checkerspot has a short lifespan, living for approximately two weeks.
Host Plants: This butterfly species heavily relies on the Turtlehead plant (Chelone glabra) as its prime host plant for reproduction and feeding. In some cases, other plants like English plantain (Plantago lanceolata) and white paintbrush (Castilleja spp.) can also serve as hosts.

Silvery Checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis)

The Silvery Checkerspot is a fascinating butterfly species native to the United States. It is known for its distinctive patterns and colors, making it a popular sight among butterfly enthusiasts.

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

Habitat: Silvery Checkerspots can be found in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, meadows, and grassy areas.
Appearance: These butterflies feature a striking combination of black, white, and orange patterns on their wings, with silvery scales on the underside of their hindwings.
Size: The adult Silvery Checkerspot has a wingspan that ranges between 1.25 and 2 inches.
Diet: As adults, Silvery Checkerspots feed on the nectar from a variety of wildflowers such as black-eyed Susans, milkweeds, and ironweeds. Their caterpillars eat leaves of plants in the Aster family.
Reproduction: Female butterflies lay their eggs in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. After hatching, the caterpillars stay together and feed on the leaves before eventually forming a chrysalis.
Lifespan: The Silvery Checkerspot has a relatively short lifespan, with adults living for only a few weeks.
Host Plants: Their caterpillars depend on plants in the Aster family, such as sunflowers and asters, as their main source of food.

Little Wood Satyr (Megisto cymela)

Meet the Little Wood Satyr, a charming butterfly species found in the USA. It’s known for its distinctive appearance and taste for grass species.

In this section, we will discuss the Little Wood Satyr’s habitat, appearance, size, diet, reproduction, lifespan, and host plants.

Habitat: Little Wood Satyrs prefer wooded areas, open fields, and grassy meadows. They are mainly found in the eastern United States but can also be seen in the Midwest.
Appearance: This butterfly species has a brownish-gray color with two creamy-yellow eyespots on each wing. Its underside has smaller eyespots, giving it a unique look.
Size: They have a wingspan of about 1.5 to 2 inches, making them moderately sized butterflies.
Diet: Little Wood Satyrs feed on grasses and sedges, but they may also consume flower nectar from time to time.
Reproduction: Males stake territory to find females for mating, engaging in aerial battles to defend their territories. Females lay eggs on grass blades, which will serve as the larval food source.
Lifespan: Adults typically live for about three weeks after emerging from their pupal stage.
Host Plants: Little Wood Satyrs use a variety of grass species as host plants for their caterpillars, including purpletop tridens (Tridens flavus) and white cutgrass (Leersia virginica).

Common Wood Nymph (Cercyonis pegala)

The Common Wood Nymph, scientifically known as Cercyonis pegala, is a butterfly species found in various habitats across the United States.

With a unique appearance, it can be easily distinguished from other butterfly species.

Let’s dive deeper into their characteristics:

Habitat: These butterflies are commonly found in open woodlands, prairies, meadows, and even marshes.
Appearance: They have a brown and yellowish coloration on their wings, with a large eyespot above the hindwing margin.
Size: Adults typically have a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 6.3 cm).
Diet: Adult Common Wood Nymphs primarily feed on the nectar of various flowers, while larvae feed on grasses.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs singly on host plants, and the eggs typically hatch within a week.
Lifespan: The adult butterflies live for approximately 3 weeks, while the total lifecycle spans around 1 year.
Host Plants: The main host plants for their larvae are grasses such as purpletop tridens and little bluestem.

These intriguing butterflies play an essential part in their ecosystems, helping to pollinate flowers and serve as a food source for various predators.

Northern Pearly Eye (Enodia anthedon)

The Northern Pearly Eye is an exquisite butterfly species found in the United States. This fascinating creature is known for its captivating appearance and fascinating life cycle.

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

Habitat: The Northern Pearly Eye is commonly found in woodland habitats, particularly in moist, shaded areas.
Appearance: This butterfly has brown wings with large, pronounced eyespots on the upper side, and smaller eyespots on the underside of the wings. Its overall wing pattern is characterized by a speckled brown and cream-colored overlay.
Size: The wingspan of the Northern Pearly Eye ranges from 1.75 to 2.5 inches, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: This species feeds on tree sap, rotting fruit, and animal droppings, and occasionally on flower nectar.
Reproduction: The mating season of this butterfly is largely dependent on the local climate, but it generally occurs from late spring to early fall. Females lay their eggs on or near host plants.
Lifespan: The adult Northern Pearly Eye has a lifespan of a few weeks, while the entire life cycle from egg to adult can last up to a year.
Host Plants: Its larval host plants include various grasses, such as sedges, reed canary grass, and other woodland grass species.

Red-Spotted Admiral (Limenitis arthemis)

The Red-Spotted Admiral, scientifically known as Limenitis arthemis, is an attractive butterfly species that can be found in various regions of the United States.

This butterfly is remarkable for its striking coloration and fascinating life cycle.

To help you learn more about this beautiful creature, let’s explore some key aspects of its life:

Habitat: Red-Spotted Admirals can be found in deciduous forests, woodland edges, and gardens, making them a common sight in both urban and rural areas.
Appearance: These butterflies possess a black base color on their wings with bright red spots near the edge, providing a striking contrast.
Size: The wingspan of a Red-Spotted Admiral ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: The adults mainly feed on the nectar of flowers, while the caterpillars munch on the leaves of their host plants.
Reproduction: Female Red-Spotted Admirals lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants. The eggs hatch into caterpillars, which eventually become butterflies through the process of metamorphosis.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Red-Spotted Admiral is around 2 to 3 weeks.
Host Plants: Willow, poplar, and aspen trees are the primary host plants for this butterfly species. Caterpillars feed on the leaves of these trees, which provide essential nutrients for growth and development.

Appalachian Azure (Celastrina neglectamajor)

The Appalachian Azure butterfly, scientifically known as Celastrina neglectamajor, is a stunning species found throughout the United States.

They are primarily found in the Appalachian Mountain range, from Georgia to New York.

Let’s dive into the details of this beautiful butterfly species.

Habitat: The Appalachian Azure thrives in the deciduous forests of the Appalachian Mountains, especially along streams where their host plants grow.
Appearance: They have a lovely powdery blue color on their upper wings, while their lower wings feature grayish-brown hues with black spots outlining a white row of dots.
Size: The average wingspan of the Appalachian Azure ranges between 0.9 to 1.1 inches (22 to 28 mm).
Diet: Adults typically feed on flower nectar, with a preference for viburnum, dogwood, and blueberry blossoms.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the flower buds of viburnum and other shrubs found in their habitat.
Lifespan: Adult Appalachian Azures have a short life span of approximately two weeks.
Host Plants: The larvae primarily feed on the flower buds and fruits of viburnum species, especially the hobblebush (Viburnum lantanoides).

The Appalachian Azure is a beautiful butterfly species that adds a touch of color and vibrancy to the Appalachian region’s lush landscapes.

Karner Blue (Lycaeides melissa samuelis)

Karner Blue is a beautiful, small butterfly native to the United States. This butterfly species has received plenty of attention due to its endangered status, which it owes to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Habitat: This butterfly thrives in areas with sandy soils and open habitats, such as oak savannas, pine barrens, and upland barrens. Karner Blue mainly inhabits the Great Lakes, the Northeast, and parts of the Midwest.
Appearance: Karner Blue exhibits sexual dimorphism. Males have a bright silvery-blue color on the upper side of their wings, while females have gray to brown coloring, with blue near the body. Both sexes have orange crescents on the underside of their wings.
Size: Their wingspan typically ranges from 0.9 to 1.25 inches, making them quite small in comparison to other butterfly species.
Diet: Adult Karner Blues feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while caterpillars only consume the leaves of their host plant, the wild lupine.
Reproduction: Karner Blues have two broods per year. After mating, females lay their eggs on wild lupine plants, where caterpillars develop and feed.
Lifespan: The adult Karner Blue has a short lifespan, living for about a week or less.
Host Plants: The survival of Karner Blue highly depends on a single host plant, the wild lupine (Lupinus perennis). This dependency makes Karner Blue vulnerable to changes that affect the availability of wild lupines.

Spring Azure (Celastrina ladon)

The Spring Azure is one of the beautiful butterflies you can encounter in the United States. This charming species is quite fascinating, with several features that set it apart.

Here’s some quick information about the Spring Azure:

Habitat: Spring Azures are found in various environments, including woodland edges, fields, gardens, and roadsides. These butterflies prefer sunny and warm areas but are relatively adaptable.
Appearance: Spring Azures have pale blue wings with small dark spots on their hindwings. The undersides of their wings may exhibit darker, wavy lines or a grayish-blue color.
Size: These butterflies are small-sized, with a wingspan ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 inches (around 2 to 3 centimeters).
Diet: Adults primarily consume nectar from various flowers such as milkweed and wintercress, while caterpillars feed on the foliage of their host plants.
Reproduction: Throughout the spring and early summer, Spring Azures lay their eggs singly on the buds or leaves of host plants.
Lifespan: The life cycle of the Spring Azure includes – egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult butterfly stages. Adult butterflies can live for around 1 to 2 weeks.
Host Plants: Spring Azure caterpillars prefer plants from the Rosaceae family, including wild cherry, blueberry, and dogwood species.

Make sure to keep an eye out for these delicate beauties when you’re out exploring nature this spring!

Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas)

The Eastern Tailed-Blue is a beautiful butterfly species that can be found across the United States. Their unique characteristics make them stand out among other butterflies.

Here is a quick overview of their features:

Habitat: Eastern Tailed-Blue butterflies are found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, open woodlands, and gardens.
Appearance: These butterflies have a stunning blue color on the upper side of their wings, with a tiny tail-like extension on the hindwing. The underside is grayish-white with black and orange spots.
Size: Eastern Tailed-Blues are small in size, with a wingspan of approximately 0.75 to 1.25 inches.
Diet: Larvae feed on various legumes, while adult butterflies feed on flower nectar, aphids, and other insects.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs on the host plants where the larvae will later feed. They can lay up to 100 eggs at a time.
Lifespan: Eastern Tailed-Blues have a short lifespan – an adult butterfly usually lives for only a few weeks.
Host Plants: The main host plants for the Eastern Tailed-Blue larvae are wild legumes, such as clover and alfalfa.

The Eastern Tailed-Blue is an elegant and vibrant species, and one of the many fascinating butterfly species you can find in the United States.

Miami Blue (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri)

The Miami Blue butterfly is a unique and rare species that can be found in the southeastern United States.

Due to habitat loss and other factors, the Miami Blue population has dwindled, and it is now considered critically endangered.

Habitat: The Miami Blue butterfly’s habitat consists of coastal strands, tropical hardwood hammocks, and open coastal areas.
Appearance: As the name suggests, these butterflies have a striking blue color on their wings, with various black markings and white fringes.
Size: The Miami Blue is a small butterfly, with a wingspan measuring just under an inch.
Diet: Adult Miami Blue butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers; their preferred plants include balloon vine, white wild indigo, and hog plum.
Reproduction: Males and females participate in a courtship dance before mating. After mating, females lay their green eggs singly on the host plant’s buds.
Lifespan: The entire life cycle of the Miami Blue butterfly is short, lasting approximately one month from egg to adult.
Host Plants: The larval host plants for the Miami Blue butterfly are primarily species in the pea family, such as blackbead and nickerbean.

Reakirt’s Blue (Echinargus isola)

Reakirt’s Blue, scientifically known as Echinargus isola, is a tiny yet fascinating butterfly species native to the United States.

This butterfly is named after the American entomologist, Tryon Reakirt. Let’s explore some interesting aspects of this butterfly species:

Habitat: Reakirt’s Blue can be found in a wide range of habitats, including open fields, meadows, and even some urban areas. These butterflies are commonly seen in the southern regions of the US.
Appearance: These butterflies have a beautiful blue color on their dorsal side, with a combination of orange, black, and grayish-white patterns on their ventral side.
Size: With a wingspan of just 0.75 to 1.25 inches, Reakirt’s Blue is a relatively small butterfly species.
Diet: As adults, they prefer to feed on the nectar of various flower species, while their caterpillars feed on legumes.
Reproduction: Female Reakirt’s Blue butterflies lay their eggs singly on the host plants, usually on flower buds or leaves.
Lifespan: Despite their small size, these butterflies can live up to several weeks in their adult stage.
Host Plants: The caterpillars of Reakirt’s Blue primarily feed on the leaves of legume plants, such as wild peas and beans. These host plants play a crucial role in the survival and growth of this unique butterfly species.

Orange Sulphur (Colias eurytheme)

Orange Sulphur butterflies, also known as Alfalfa butterflies or Colias eurytheme, are a striking species native to the United States.

You can easily spot these colorful creatures thanks to their vibrant hues and fascinating behavior.

Here’s what you need to know about them:

Habitat: Orange Sulphurs are commonly found in open areas, such as meadows, fields, and roadsides, where their host plants grow in abundance.
Appearance: The upper side of their wings is orange with a wide black border, while the underside is a more subdued yellow with a silvery spot near the center.
Size: They have a wingspan of about 1.5 to 2 inches, making them moderately sized butterflies.
Diet: Adults primarily feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, while the caterpillars munch on plants like clover and alfalfa.
Reproduction: Females lay single eggs on the underside of host plants, and the developing caterpillars feed on the foliage.
Lifespan: The Orange Sulphur’s lifespan is rather short, ranging from a few days to a few weeks.
Host Plants: The main host plants for their caterpillars are legumes such as clover and alfalfa, which provide plenty of nourishment for the developing larvae.

Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)

Cloudless Sulphur is a fascinating butterfly species that you may come across in the USA. They bring life and color to the environment, making for great moments of awe as they flutter by.

This butterfly is mostly found in the southeastern regions of the U.S., flying swiftly and gracefully.

Here’s more about the Cloudless Sulphur:

Habitat: The Cloudless Sulphur thrives in open fields, parks, gardens, and other sunny, open spaces. They are also common in agricultural areas, focusing on their host plants, which are typically legumes.
Appearance: These butterflies flaunt their bright-yellow wings, edged with black borders in some females. Their lower wings also exhibit a delicate pattern of grey dots.
Size: The Cloudless Sulphur averages a wingspan of about 2.25 to 3.125 inches, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: Adult butterflies primarily indulge in nectar from various flowers such as hibiscus, goldenrod, and honeysuckle, while caterpillars feed on leaves of the host plants.
Reproduction: The female lays single eggs on the host plant, usually on young leaves. After hatching, the caterpillars feed on the host plant’s leaves and grow before becoming chrysalises.
Lifespan: Adult Cloudless Sulphurs live for approximately one month, ensuring the continuation of their species through reproduction.
Host Plants: The host plants include various legumes, such as cassias, partridge peas, and wild senna, which provide both food and shelter for the developing caterpillars.

Little Yellow (Pyrisitia lisa)

The Little Yellow, or Pyrisitia lisa, is a fascinating butterfly species that you might not know about. This delightful creature can turn any ordinary garden into an enchanting world of vibrant colors.

Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about the Little Yellow:

Habitat: This butterfly species is predominantly found in the southern United States, from Florida to Texas and up to Colorado. They are commonly found in wetlands, open fields, and gardens.
Appearance: Its color is predominantly yellow with a distinctive dark brown/black border on the edge of its wings, making for an attractive contrast.
Size: The Little Yellow is small in size, with a wingspan that ranges between 1.25 to 1.75 inches.
Diet: Adult Little Yellows are known to feed on nectar from flowers, while caterpillars consume the leaves of various host plants.
Reproduction: After mating, the female Little Yellow lays her eggs singly or in clusters on the host plants. The eggs then hatch into larvae which develop into caterpillars before becoming butterflies.
Lifespan: This butterfly species has a short life cycle and can complete multiple generations in a single year.
Host Plants: The host plants for the Little Yellow caterpillars include partridge pea, wild sensitive plant, and other legume species.

With its striking appearance and enchanting presence, the Little Yellow butterfly is truly a joy to observe in the natural world!

Sleepy Orange (Eurema nicippe)

The Sleepy Orange is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in the United States. Known for its bright and attractive colors, this butterfly has some unique features that make it stand out from other species.

Let’s have a closer look at the Sleepy Orange:

Habitat: These butterflies are typically found across the southern United States, from Florida to Texas and as far north as North Carolina. They prefer open areas such as meadows, prairies, and roadsides.
Appearance: The Sleepy Orange has bright orange wings with brown markings on the upper side and a more subtle yellow-orange underside. The wings are also adorned with small black spots near the edges.
Size: Adult Sleepy Oranges have a wingspan of about 1.25 to 1.75 inches, making them a relatively small butterfly species.
Diet: The primary food sources for the Sleepy Orange are flower nectar and the nectar of host plants. They enjoy a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, asters, and goldenrods.
Reproduction: Males and females engage in a courtship dance before mating. Females lay single eggs on host plants which hatch into caterpillars.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Sleepy Orange butterfly is about 2 to 3 weeks.
Host Plants: The larvae of the Sleepy Orange feed on plants from the pea family, such as partridge peas, sensitive plants, and wild indigo.

Dog Face (Zerene cesonia)

The Dog Face butterfly, scientifically known as Zerene cesonia, is a fascinating species that can be found in the United States.

This beautiful creature has some unique characteristics that make it stand out in the world of butterflies.

Habitat: The Dog Face butterfly is mainly found in the southern parts of the United States, Mexico, and Central America. They prefer open spaces like meadows, gardens, and grasslands.
Appearance: As the name suggests, the wings of this butterfly have markings resembling a dog’s face, with distinctive black and yellow patterns.
Size: The wingspan of the Dog Face butterfly usually ranges between 2 to 2.5 inches (50 to 65mm).
Diet: The adult Dog Face butterflies feed on nectar from flowers such as sunflowers and thistles, while the caterpillars feed on leaves.
Reproduction: The females lay their eggs individually on the leaves of their host plants, typically in the spring.
Lifespan: The adult Dog Face butterfly has a relatively short lifespan, living up to a few weeks.
Host Plants: The main host plants for the Dog Face caterpillars are members of the pea family, including alfalfa and clover.

As you can see, the Dog Face butterfly is an incredible species with a unique appearance and fascinating behaviors. Keep an eye out for these beautiful creatures in your local area!

Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus)

Gray Hairstreaks are fascinating butterfly species found across the United States. These small, grayish-blue butterflies have distinctive features that make them stand out among other species.

Let’s explore some interesting facts about the Gray Hairstreak:

Habitat: Gray Hairstreaks thrive in a variety of habitats ranging from open fields, forests, and gardens, to agricultural lands and urban areas.
Appearance: These subtle beauties feature gray wings with a blue sheen, highlighted by a striking orange spot near the tail and a series of black lines and spots.
Size: These butterflies measure approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in wingspan, making them easy to spot in your backyard.
Diet: Adult Gray Hairstreaks mainly feed on flower nectar, while caterpillars consume the leaves of host plants.
Reproduction: Females lay their pale green eggs singly on host plants. After about a week, caterpillars hatch and start feeding before pupating into chrysalises.
Lifespan: The adult Gray Hairstreaks typically live for a week or two, depending on the environmental conditions.
Host Plants: Gray Hairstreak caterpillars feed on a variety of host plants, including mallow, cotton, beans, and clover. This diversity in host plants makes them adaptable to various habitats.

Eastern Pygmy-Blue (Brephidium pseudofea)

The Eastern Pygmy-Blue is a fascinating and dainty butterfly species that can be found in the United States.

Let’s take a closer look at some key aspects of this beautiful creature:

Habitat: Found in salt marshes, coastal dunes, and sandy beaches, the Eastern Pygmy-Blue prefers areas with saline or brackish water. These butterflies are commonly found in the southeastern US coast, from Texas to South Carolina.
Appearance: With tiny wings adorned in beautiful shades of blue and a dusting of gray, these butterflies are truly enchanting. The underside of the wings is pale, with small black spots on the hindwings.
Size: As the name suggests, the Eastern Pygmy-Blue is quite small, with a wingspan of only 0.5-0.8 inches, making it one of the smallest butterflies in the United States.
Diet: These tiny creatures mainly feed on flower nectar, supplementing their diet with salts and minerals found in mud or damp soil.
Reproduction: Typically active throughout the year in southern regions, Eastern Pygmy-Blues lay their eggs singly on host plants, and the larvae feed on the foliage.
Lifespan: The adult butterflies usually live for a few weeks, while the entire life cycle, including the larval and pupal stages, takes several weeks to complete.
Host Plants: Adult females primarily lay their eggs on glassworts (Salicornia spp.), which are salt-marsh plants that the caterpillars depend on for food.

Cabbage White (Pieris rapae)

The Cabbage White butterfly is probably one of the most common and recognizable species in the United States.

Here’s some more information on this lovely insect:

Habitat: These white butterflies can be found in gardens, farmlands, woodlands, and urban areas, making it a very adaptable species.
Appearance: As their name suggests, Cabbage Whites have a white coloration with black spots on their wings. They also showcase delicate black edging around the wings.
Size: The adults have a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches.
Diet: Cabbage White caterpillars feed on the leaves of plants from the Brassicaceae family while adults sip nectar from various flower species.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs singly on host plants, and a single female can lay up to 200 eggs.
Lifespan: The adult Cabbage White has a short lifespan of approximately 2 to 4 weeks.
Host Plants: Some of their preferred host plants include cabbage, kale, turnip, broccoli, and cauliflower.

The Cabbage White butterfly may be seen as a pest to some gardeners, but its widespread presence and adaptability make it an interesting and resilient species to observe and appreciate.

Great Southern White (Ascia monuste)

The Great Southern White is a remarkable butterfly species native to the southeastern part of the United States.

These butterflies are easily recognizable and can be quite an interesting sight for both butterfly enthusiasts and casual admirers.

Here are some quick facts about the Great Southern White:

Habitat: Great Southern Whites thrive in coastal areas, marshes, and open fields. They are usually found in the Southeast US, including states like Texas, Florida, and South Carolina.
Appearance: These butterflies boast a stunning mix of white and blue-gray colors on their wings, with more pronounced blue-gray markings on the males.
Size: The Great Southern White has an average wingspan of about 6.0 to 6.3 cm, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: Nectar from various flowers, including saltwort and lantana, serves as the primary source of food for these butterflies.
Reproduction: Females lay their eggs individually on host plants, producing multiple generations each year.
Lifespan: The adult Great Southern White tends to live for about 2 weeks.
Host Plants: Larvae feed on plants from the Brassicaceae family, such as peppergrass and wild mustard, where the eggs are laid.

Next time you find yourself in the southeastern US, keep an eye out for the beautiful Great Southern White butterfly!

Olympia Marble (Euchloe olympia)

The Olympia Marble is a fascinating butterfly species that resides in the United States.

As you embark on your butterfly-watching journey, keep an eye out for this little beauty, and be sure to learn more about its intriguing details:

Habitat: Olympia Marbles thrive in open habitats, such as limestone and shale barrens, sand dunes, hilltops, and sandy fields.
Appearance: These butterflies boast off-white wings adorned with greenish marbling, adding a unique touch of elegance to their stance.
Size: Olympia Marbles are relatively small creatures, with a wingspan averaging between 1.2 and 1.6 inches.
Diet: Primarily nectivorous, the Olympia Marble sips nectar from a range of flowers such as clovers, mustards, and asters.
Reproduction: Following mating, the female butterfly lays her eggs on the host plants to provide sustenance for the newborn caterpillars.
Lifespan: Adults have a short-lived lifespan, spanning only around two weeks. In contrast, the eggs, caterpillars, and pupae might take several months to complete their life cycle.
Host Plants: Olympia Marbles rely on Rock Cress plants as their primary host, particularly Arabis and Boechera species, for egg-laying and caterpillar nourishment.

Checkered White (Pontia protodice)

The Checkered White butterfly is a beautiful species found in various parts of the United States. This fascinating creature is known for its captivating appearance and is quite common in certain regions.

Let’s delve deeper into the fascinating world of this butterfly:

Habitat: They prefer open spaces such as fields, meadows, gardens, and roadsides, allowing them to be easily observed.
Appearance: Sporting a white background adorned by a checkered pattern of black spots and lines, they truly stand out from the rest.
Size: Adult Checkered Whites usually have a wingspan of 1.5 to 2 inches, making them a medium-sized butterfly.
Diet: As nectar feeders, they enjoy flowers and wildflowers like alfalfa, clover, and desert globemallow.
Reproduction: Like most butterflies, Checkered Whites reproduce through mating and laying eggs on their host plants.
Lifespan: Their typical life cycle usually lasts around 3 weeks to a month, including the larval and pupal stages.
Host Plants: The primary host plants for Checkered White caterpillars are various species of mustards and crucifers.

The Checkered White butterfly is a fascinating species that captivates with its appearance and behavior.

Learning more about it can make your butterfly-watching experience even more exciting and fulfilling.

West Virginia White (Pieris virginiensis)

The West Virginia White butterfly is a beautiful butterfly species you will find primarily in the Eastern part of the United States.

This butterfly is especially known for its relationship with a specific type of mustard plant.

Habitat: Found in moist deciduous forests with an abundance of its host plants (mustard family). They can be commonly spotted in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and some parts of the Midwest states.
Appearance: Its wings are mostly white with slightly rounded edges and black veins on the forewings. The underside of the wings shows a subtler pattern of grayish markings.
Size: It has a moderate wingspan ranging between 1.5 to 2 inches (38-50mm).
Diet: As adults, they feed on nectar produced from different flowers such as violets, blueberries, and mustard plants.
Reproduction: It has a single generation per year, with eggs laid on its host plants during the spring season.
Lifespan: The average lifespan for a West Virginia White is approximately two weeks.
Host Plants: The larvae feed mainly on plants from the mustard family, such as toothworts, rock cress, and bittercresses.

Falcate Orangetip (Anthocharis midea)

The Falcate Orangetip is an enchanting butterfly species that you would love to spot in the US.

Being part of the Pieridae family, it is commonly found in southeastern United States and is prevalent in woodland habitats.

Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating butterfly:

Habitat: This butterfly thrives in open woodlands and forest edges, often found in moist or swampy lowlands of the southeastern US.
Appearance: Falcate Orangetips have white wings with distinctive orange tips on their forewings and dark brown/black markings on both the forewings and hindwings. Males are typically more vibrant than females, having a deeper orange hue.
Size: With a wingspan of 1.3 to 1.7 inches, Falcate Orangetips are relatively small yet striking butterflies.
Diet: Adult Falcate Orangetips feed on nectar from various wildflowers, including violets and spring beauties.
Reproduction: The females lay their eggs individually on host plants, typically during the mid-day hours of the spring season.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of this butterfly species ranges between two weeks to a month as adults.
Host Plants: As larvae, they feed primarily on rock cresses (Arabis species) and other brassicaceous plants, providing a significant role in plant pollination.

Keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures the next time you find yourself wandering through a woodland area!

Bronze Copper (Lycaena hyllus)

The Bronze Copper is another stunning butterfly species you can find in the United States.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the fascinating characteristics of this little creature:

Habitat: Mostly found in wet, marshy areas and along the edges of streams and ponds.
Appearance: Its wings have a beautiful metallic bronze color with a subtle pattern of black dots and wavy lines.
Size: Bronze Copper butterflies are small to medium-sized with a wingspan of about 1.25-1.75 inches.
Diet: Adults feed mainly on nectar from flowers, while the caterpillars eat the leaves of their host plants.
Reproduction: Female lays eggs individually under the leaves of host plants. The eggs later hatch into caterpillars.
Lifespan: Adult butterflies have a relatively short lifespan of about 2-3 weeks.
Host Plants: Some of the common host plants for the Bronze Copper include the leaves of water dock (Rumex species) and curled dock (Rumex crispus).

Now that you know a bit more about the Bronze Copper, keep an eye out for this lovely butterfly during your next nature walk near a wetland or a stream.

Conclusion

The United States is home to a diverse array of stunning butterflies, each with their unique patterns and colors.

This list of 50 butterfly species only scratches the surface of the incredible world of these fascinating creatures.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences with these butterflies in the comments below.

Butterflies Updated: July 11, 2023

Welcome to Insectic, a blog to learn about insects and bugs. I'm Richard, and I've created this website to share my experience, knowledge, and passion with others.