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Jun 12, 2024 · There are over 700 species of butterflies in the United States, and around 170 species of butterflies in California alone. These insects serve an important function, acting as pollinators just like bees. The famous monarch is known for pollinating the west coast during their annual migration route.
- Red Admiral. Vanessa atalanta. Red Admirals have a wingspan of 1.75 to 2.5 inches. The coloring is dark brown with a reddish circular band and white spots.
- Painted Lady. Vanessa cardui. Painted Lady butterflies have a wingspan of 1.75 to 2.5 inches. The coloring is pinkish-orange, with dark brown to black markings near the wingtips and white spots inside the black markings.
- Monarch. Danaus plexippus. Monarch butterflies have a wingspan of 3.5 to 4 inches. Their recognizable coloring is a “stained glass” pattern of orange with black veins.
- American Lady. Vanessa virginiensis. American Lady Butterflies have a wingspan of 1.75 to 2.5 inches. The coloring of this species is a brilliant orange with dark borders and markings and white and purple spots.
Butterflies of California. View Plain Taxonomic Photo. Check list for Butterflies and Moths (Order Lepidoptera) ← Prev 1 2 3 Next →. Clodius Parnassian (Parnassius clodius) Last observation: Clodius Parnassian from Trinity Center, CA 96091, USA on August 7, 2024 at 12:09 PM by Adam Cummings (View All) | 0 comments.
California is home to about 170 species of butterflies, out of which the large marble butterfly, the field crescent, the west coast lady, the sooty wing, and the California ringlets are the most common.
- Monarch butterfly. Scientific name: Danaus plexippus. The monarch butterfly may be the most recognizable butterfly in the world, and it’s famous for its black and orange color pattern.
- California tortoiseshell. Scientific name: Nymphalis californica. The California tortoiseshell is an orange and black butterfly often mistaken for the monarch.
- Satyr comma. Scientific name: Polygonia satyrus. While frequently found in Western Canada, the satyr comma is also common in the state of California. It is often confused with the eastern comma due to how similar they are.
- Red Admiral. Scientific name: Vanessa atalanta. This butterfly can be identified by its black wings with white spots and a red band. It has an average wingspan of around two inches, making it a medium-sized butterfly.
Their fluttering flight heralds the changing of seasons. This guide explores twenty of the most iconic and important butterflies found in the Golden State. Discover rare endemic specials and migratory marvels. Learn the secrets of each species’ life cycle and preferred habitat.
These are the most commonly reported butterflies and moths in California. If you do not see the species you found, look at all photographs submitted in California, or visit the California page to see recently submitted sightings.
