22 Common Butterflies In Virginia: Pictures, Size, Features, Unique Behaviors

Common Butterflies In Virginia

There are more 102 species of butterflies commonly seen in Virginia, but we will look at the 22 common butterflies in Virginia, from the American lady butterfly to the Canadian Tiger swallowtail butterfly; we will also talk about their Size, Features, Unique Behaviors of these fascinating butterflies that you can easily see in Virginia’s diverse ecosystems, including meadows and forests.

Virginia’s diverse ecosystem is home to a captivating array of butterflies, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

In this guide, I will take you to explore the enchanting world of 22 Common butterflies in Virginia, showcasing their stunning pictures, discussing their size variations, highlighting their distinctive features, and unraveling their unique behaviors.

Also read: Discovering 22 Butterflies in Georgia (Pictures, ID Tips & Facts)

22 Common Types of butterflies in Virginia

Let’s delve into the world of these beautiful 22 Common butterflies in Virginia and discover their remarkable traits:

#1. American Lady Butterfly

American lady butterfly
American Lady Butterfly (Photo credit: canva.com)

The American Lady Butterfly (Vanessa virginiensis) is among Virginia’s stunning Virginia butterfly species.

Size: The American Lady Butterfly has an average wingspan of 4 to 5.7 centimeters (1.6 to 2.2 inches). Its overall length is relatively small compared to other butterfly species.

Features: This butterfly is characterized by its vibrant coloration and intricate wing patterns.

The upper side of its wings displays a combination of orange, black, and white markings.

Black borders and intricate black spots accent the orange-brown base color. The underside of its wings features a camouflage-like pattern, with shades of brown and gray providing excellent camouflage when the butterfly rests with its wings closed.

Unique Behaviors: The American Lady Butterfly is known for its migratory behavior. During the summer months, it can be found in northern regions. Still, as the temperature drops, it migrates southward to warmer areas.

This butterfly species also exhibits a fascinating behavior called “puddling,” they gather in groups to extract moisture and essential minerals from damp soil or mud puddles.

#2. American Copper

American Copper
American Copper (Photo credit: canva.com)

The American Copper (Lycaena phlaeas) is a small but striking butterfly species commonly found in Virginia.

Size: The American Copper has an average wingspan of approximately 2.5 to 3.2 centimeters (1 to 1.25 inches). It is one of the smaller butterfly species in Virginia.

Features: This butterfly is known for its vibrant colors and intricate wing patterns. The upper side of its wings is a brilliant orange or copper color, hence its name.

The wings are adorned with black spots and dark borders. When the American Copper opens its wings, you can observe a unique mosaic-like pattern on the hindwings, featuring a combination of orange, black, and grayish-white colors.

Unique Behaviors: The American Copper is a highly active butterfly, often seen fluttering low to the ground in open areas such as meadows, fields, and gardens. It has a rapid and erratic flight pattern, making it challenging to observe closely.

American Copper butterfly has a unique behavior called “hilltopping,” where males gather at elevated locations, such as hilltops or high points, to engage in territorial displays and courtship rituals.

The American Copper is a delightful butterfly species to encounter in Virginia’s natural landscapes.

#3. Clouded Sulphur Butterfly

Clouded Sulphur Butterfly
Clouded Sulphur Butterfly (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Clouded Sulphur Butterfly (Colias philodice) is a common and vibrant butterfly species found in Virginia.

Size: The Clouded Sulphur Butterfly has an average wingspan of 3.8 to 6.4 centimeters (1.5 to 2.5 inches). It is a medium-sized butterfly species, with variations in size depending on gender and regional populations.

Features: This butterfly species showcases a stunning display of yellow coloration. The upper side of its wings exhibits a bright yellow hue, while the undersides are pale yellow with hints of green. Both the forewings and hindwings may have small black spots and faint patterns.

The Clouded Sulphur Butterfly also displays sexual dimorphism, with females typically having a slightly larger wingspan and a deeper yellow coloration than males.

Unique Behaviors: One noteworthy behavior of the Clouded Sulphur Butterfly is its tendency to “hilltopping.”

Males are often perched on elevated locations, such as hilltops or tall vegetation, where they actively patrol and search for females.

This behavior serves as a means of locating potential mates. This butterfly species is also known for its migratory tendencies, with individuals often embarking on long-distance journeys to find suitable breeding grounds.

Keep an eye out for this species fluttering gracefully among meadows, fields, and gardens when identifying butterflies in Virginia.

#4. Cloudless Sulphur Butterfly

Cloudless Sulphur
Cloudless Sulphur (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Cloudless Sulphur Butterfly (Phoebis sennae) is a captivating butterfly species commonly found in Virginia. Let’s explore the fascinating details of this beautiful butterfly:

Size: The Cloudless Sulphur Butterfly boasts an impressive wingspan, averaging 6.4 to 9.5 centimeters (2.5 to 3.75 inches).

It is considered a large-sized butterfly species, with females typically slightly larger than males.

Features: This butterfly species exhibits striking yellow coloration on its wings’ upper and lower sides.

The wings are predominantly yellow, sometimes with hints of green near the body.

The males tend to have a brighter and more vibrant yellow color, while females may display a slightly paler shade.

Another notable feature is the lack of distinct patterns or markings on the wings, giving them a cloudless appearance.

Unique Behaviors: The Cloudless Sulphur Butterfly is known for its strong migratory tendencies. It undertakes impressive long-distance journeys, flying north in spring and summer and returning south in winter.

This species is also highly attracted to nectar-producing flowers. It is a common sight in gardens and meadows, where it feeds on the abundant floral resources.

The Cloudless Sulphur Butterfly has a fast and agile flight pattern, making it an enchanting sight as it gracefully glides through the air.

#5. Great Purple Hairstreak

Great Purple Hairstreak
Great Purple Hairstreak (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Great Purple Hairstreak butterfly is a visually stunning species with its shimmering blue-black wings and vibrant purple undersides. Its small size and unique coloration make it a captivating sight in woodland areas.

Size: The Great Purple Hairstreak is a relatively small butterfly with an average wingspan of 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm).

In terms of overall size, it falls within the medium-sized range compared to other butterfly species.

Features: The Great Purple Hairstreak exhibits distinct physical characteristics that make it easily recognizable. The upper side of its wings is predominantly dark brown, almost black, with a metallic blue iridescence.

This shimmering blue hue becomes especially pronounced when viewed under certain lighting conditions.

On the undersides of the wings, you’ll find a vibrant purple coloration. The purple hue is most intense on the hindwings, forming a wide purple band that spans the lower half.

Along the outer edges of the wings, there are thin, wavy orange lines that add an extra touch of uniqueness to its appearance.

Unique Behaviors: The Great Purple Hairstreak displays interesting behaviors that make it notable among butterfly species.

It is known to inhabit woodland areas and can often be found in treetops.

Great Purple Hairstreak prefers feeding on tree sap, rotting fruits, and animal droppings.

Males of the species engage in territorial behaviors and are often observed perching upside down on leaves or branches, defending their territories against other males. This behavior makes them more susceptible to bird attacks since they become more visible when defending their territory.

Another intriguing aspect of the Great Purple Hairstreak’s behavior is its association with ants.

The caterpillars of this butterfly secrete a sugary substance that attracts ants. In turn, the ants protect from predators and may even serve as a food source for the caterpillars.

#6. Giant Swallowtail Butterfly

Giant Swallowtail
Giant Swallowtail (Photo credit: canva.com)
Giant Swallowtail Caterpillar
Giant Swallowtail Caterpillar (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Giant Swallowtail Butterfly is a magnificent sight with its large size, striking black and yellow coloration, and distinctive wing shape.

Its behaviors and adaptations further add to its allure. Keep an eye out for this beautiful butterfly in Virginia, and you may have the opportunity to witness its impressive flight and unique characteristics.

Size: The Giant Swallowtail Butterfly is one of the largest butterfly species in North America. It boasts an impressive wingspan that ranges from 4 to 6.3 inches (10 to 16 cm), making it a truly majestic sight. In terms of overall size, it is considered a large butterfly.

Features: This butterfly exhibits distinct physical characteristics that make it stand out from other species.

Its wings are predominantly black with striking yellow markings. When the wings are open, they reveal a pattern of bold yellow bands and spots, creating a vibrant contrast against the black background.

The hindwings have elongated “tails” that resemble the swallow’s forked tail, giving the butterfly its name.

Another noteworthy feature of the Giant Swallowtail is its scalloped wing edges, which add to its unique appearance.

Unique Behaviors: The Giant Swallowtail Butterfly displays some interesting behaviors that contribute to its uniqueness. One notable behavior is its habit of “hill-topping.”

Male Giant Swallowtails often gather on hilltops or other prominent locations, competing for territory and mating opportunities.

They engage in aerial pursuits, chasing one another in an impressive flight display. The butterfly is also known for its mimicry behavior.

The caterpillar resembles bird droppings, which provide camouflage and protection from predators.

Additionally, the Giant Swallowtail has a fascinating relationship with citrus trees. The butterfly lays its eggs on citrus leaves, and the caterpillars feed on them. However, they also have a unique adaptation where they mimic the appearance and scent of bird droppings, deterring potential predators.

#7. Diana Fritillary

Diana Fritillary
Diana Fritillary (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Diana Fritillary is a beautiful butterfly with its striking orange-brown coloration, intricate wing patterns, and unique markings. Its behaviors and ecological associations with violet plants add to its fascinating nature.

If you happen to spot this butterfly in Virginia, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and observe its interactions with its environment.

Size: The Diana Fritillary is a medium to large-sized butterfly with an average wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 inches (6.4 to 11.4 cm). It is considered one of the larger fritillary species.

Features: This butterfly exhibits distinct physical characteristics that make it easily recognizable. Its wings’ upper side is predominantly orange-brown, with intricate black markings and patterns.

The forewings have a prominent silver-white crescent-shaped spot near the tip. The hindwings display smaller silver-white spots, creating a beautiful contrast against the orange-brown background.

The undersides of the wings are lighter in color, with a marbled pattern and a row of smaller black spots.

The Diana Fritillary has a robust body with a furry appearance and six slender legs.

Unique Behaviors: The Diana Fritillary displays some interesting behaviors and habits. One noteworthy behavior is its preference for woodland habitats, particularly those with damp conditions.

It can often be found near streams, marshes, and wooded areas. Males engage in territorial behaviors, patrolling their designated areas and actively searching for females.

Another fascinating aspect of this species is its diet. The Diana Fritillary caterpillars primarily feed on violet plants’ leaves (Viola species).

Female butterflies are known to lay their eggs on violet plants, ensuring a suitable food source for the caterpillars.

This specialized diet contributes to the butterfly’s distinct life cycle and ecological niche.

#8. Cabbage White Butterfly

Cabbage White Butterfly
Cabbage White Butterfly (Photo credit: canva.com)

Size: The Cabbage White Butterfly is a small to medium-sized with an average wingspan of 1.6 to 2.8 inches (4 to 7 cm). It is one of the most common and widely distributed butterflies in Virginia.

Features: This butterfly has distinct physical characteristics that make it easily identifiable.

The upper side of its wings is predominantly white, hence the name “Cabbage White.” The forewings have black spots near the tips, and the females may have two black spots on each forewings, while the males typically have one spot.

The undersides of the wings are pale yellowish-green with faint grayish marbling. The body of the Cabbage White Butterfly is slender and relatively small compared to its wings.

Unique Behaviors:The Cabbage White Butterfly exhibits certain behaviors that are noteworthy.

One remarkable behavior is its migratory nature. This species is known for its long-distance migrations, with individuals traveling hundreds or thousands of miles.

The Cabbage White Butterfly is also known for its host plant preference.

As a member of the Pieridae family, it primarily lays its eggs on plants from the Brassicaceae family, including cabbage, broccoli, and mustard plants. The caterpillars feed on these plants, while the adults commonly visit various flowers for nectar.

#9. Eastern Comma

Eastern Comma
Eastern Comma (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Eastern Comma butterfly is a common species in Virginia and can be found in habitats like meadows, fields, and forests.

The butterflies are active during the day and fly from flower to flower, feeding on nectar.

The Eastern Comma butterfly has one to two broods per year, and the adults are seen from April to October.

Size: The Eastern Comma is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 1.75-2.0 inches.

Features: The Eastern Comma is distinguished by its black upper wings with a white comma-shaped mark near the center of the hindwing.

The undersides of the wings are brown with black markings.

Unique Behaviors: The Eastern Comma butterfly is known for basking in the sun with its wings open. This behavior helps the butterfly to warm up and regulate its body temperature.

The Eastern Comma butterfly also has a unique way of flying. When it is in flight, the butterfly flaps its wings rapidly, giving it a darting appearance.

#10. Gray Hairstreak Butterfly

Gray Hairstreak
Gray Hairstreak (Photo credit: canva.com)

The Gray Hairstreak butterfly is a common species in Virginia and can be found in habitats such as forests, meadows, and gardens.

Gray Hairstreak butterfly has one to two broods per year, and the adults are seen from May to September.

Size: The Gray Hairstreak is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 1.25-1.5 inches.

Features: The Gray Hairstreak is distinguished by its gray upper wings with a black border and a series of white spots.

The undersides of the wings are gray with black markings. The Gray Hairstreak also has a distinctive “hairstreak” on the underside of its hindwings.

Unique Behaviors: The Gray Hairstreak butterfly is known for perching on the tips of leaves and branches.

This behavior helps the butterfly to survey its surroundings and to look for mates. The Gray Hairstreak butterfly also has a unique way of flying.

When it is in flight, the butterfly flaps its wings rapidly, giving it a darting appearance.

#11. Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Photo credit: shutterstock)

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly is a common species in Virginia and can be found in habitats like forests, meadows, and gardens.

The butterflies are active during the day and fly from flower to flower, feeding on nectar.

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly has one to two broods per year, and the adults are seen from April to October.

Size: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a large butterfly with a wingspan of 3.5-5 inches.

Features: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is distinguished by its black upper wings with bright yellow stripes and a large orange spot near the center of the forewing.

The undersides of the wings are orange with black markings.

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail also has a distinctive “tail” on the underside of its hindwings.

Unique Behaviors: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly is known for basking in the sun with its wings open.

This behavior helps the butterfly to warm up and regulate its body temperature. The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly also has a unique way of flying.

When it is in flight, the butterfly flaps its wings very rapidly, which gives it a darting appearance.

#12. Common Ringlet Butterfly

Common Ringlet
(Photo credit: shutterstock)

Size: The Common Ringlet Butterfly is a medium-sized butterfly with an average wingspan of 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm). It is commonly found in Virginia and other parts of North America.

Features: This butterfly has distinct physical characteristics that help differentiate it from other species.

The upper side of its wings is usually dark brown with a velvety appearance.

The forewings may have a lighter orange-brown or rusty-brown coloration near the base.

The undersides of the wings are lighter in color, with prominent eyespots on the hindwings.

These eyespots resemble rings or circles, hence the name “Common Ringlet.”

The body of the Common Ringlet Butterfly is relatively stout and hairy.

Unique Behaviors:The Common Ringlet Butterfly exhibits certain behaviors that are noteworthy.

One interesting behavior is its preference for grassy habitats. This species is commonly found in meadows, fields, and grassy areas, where it feeds on grasses and low-growing plants.

The Common Ringlet Butterfly is known for its territorial behavior, with males often defending small territories against intruders.

During courtship, the males engage in aerial displays to attract females.

#13. Common Buckeye Butterfly

Common Buckeye
Common Buckeye (Photo credit: shutterstock)

Size: The Common Buckeye Butterfly is a medium-sized butterfly with an average wingspan of 1.5 to 2.6 inches (3.8 to 6.6 cm). It is commonly found in Virginia and throughout North America.

Features: This butterfly has distinct physical characteristics that make it easily recognizable.

The upper side of its wings is predominantly brown, with large eyespots outlined in orange or yellow.

These eyespots resemble the eyes of a deer or a buck, giving the butterfly its common name.                                                                                                        

The eyespots serve as a defense mechanism by intimidating potential predators.

The underside of the wings is brown with intricate patterns and smaller eyespots that help with camouflage when the butterfly rests with its wings closed.

The body of the Common Buckeye Butterfly is relatively robust, and the antennae are long and slender.

Unique Behaviors: The Common Buckeye Butterfly exhibits several noteworthy behaviors. It is known for its migratory tendencies, with populations moving northward during the spring and summer.

This species is also highly territorial, with males often engaging in aerial contests to defend their territories and attract females.

Common Buckeye Butterflies are agile fliers and can be seen fluttering rapidly or gliding gracefully through meadows, fields, and open areas.

They prefer nectar-rich flowers and are particularly attracted to plants like milkweed, asters, and verbena.

#14. Common Wood-Nymph

Common Wood-Nymph
Common Wood-Nymph (Photo credit: shutterstock)

Size: The Common Wood-Nymph is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 2-2.5 inches.

Features: The Common Wood-Nymph is distinguished by its brown upper wings with two large, yellow-rimmed black eyespots.

The undersides of the wings are brown with orange and white markings.

The Common wood nymph also has a distinctive “tail” on the underside of its hindwings.

Unique Behaviors: The Common Wood-Nymph butterfly is known for perching on the tips of leaves and branches.

This behavior helps the butterfly to survey its surroundings and to look for mates. The Common Wood-Nymph butterfly also has a unique way of flying.

When it is in flight, the butterfly flaps its wings very rapidly, which gives it a darting appearance.

The Common Wood-Nymph butterfly is a common species in Virginia and can be found in various habitats, including forests, meadows, and gardens.

The butterflies are active during the day and fly from flower to flower, feeding on nectar.

The Common Wood-Nymph butterfly has one to two broods per year, and the adults are seen from May to September.

#15. Dainty Sulphur Butterfly

Common Butterflies In Virginia
Common Butterflies In Virginia (Photo: Jim McCulloch/flickr)

Size: The Dainty Sulphur Butterfly is a small-sized butterfly with an average wingspan of 1.2 to 1.6 inches (3 to 4 cm). It is commonly found in Virginia and throughout North America.

Features: This butterfly has distinct physical characteristics that make it unique and easily identifiable. Both males and females have pale yellow wings with a slight greenish tint.

The male Dainty Sulphur Butterfly wings usually have a brighter yellow coloration than females.

The upper side of the wings is usually unmarked, while the undersides have subtle grayish patterns.

This butterfly has relatively rounded wings, and its body is slender. The antennae are long and thin.

Unique Behaviors: The Dainty Sulphur Butterfly exhibits several noteworthy behaviors. It is known for its quick and erratic flight, making it challenging to observe closely.

This species is often found in open areas, including meadows, gardens, and fields. Dainty Sulphur Butterflies prefer nectar-rich flowers and are particularly attracted to plants like clover, asters, and milkweed.

They are active during the day and are more commonly seen during the warm summer months. Males engage in territorial behaviors, defending specific areas where they perch and search for mates.

#16. Baltimore Checkerspot

Baltimore Checkerspot
Baltimore Checkerspot (Photo credit: shutterstock)

Size: The Baltimore Checkerspot is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 1.5-2 inches.

Features: The Baltimore Checkerspot is distinguished by its black upper wings, orange crescents on the outer margins, and rows of creamy white spots inward. The undersides of the wings are orange with black markings. The Baltimore Checkerspot also has a distinctive “eyespot” on the underside of its hindwings.

Unique Behaviors: The Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly is known for depositing its eggs on the leaves of white turtlehead, its host plant.

The caterpillars of the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly can change their color to match the color of the leaves they are feeding on, which helps them avoid predators.

The Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly is a threatened species in Virginia and can only be found in a few select locations.

The butterfly’s habitat is being threatened by the loss of wetlands and the introduction of invasive species.

#17. Aphrodite Fritillary Butterfly

Aphrodite Fritillary
Aphrodite Fritillary (Photo credit: canva.com)

Size: The Aphrodite Fritillary Butterfly is a medium-sized butterfly with an average wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 inches (6.4 to 8.9 cm).

It is commonly found in Virginia and other parts of North America.

Features: This butterfly has distinct physical characteristics that make it stand out. The upper side of its wings is vibrant orange with black markings and spots.

The wings have a scalloped shape, adding to its beauty. The underside of the wings is a combination of yellow, orange, and brown tones with intricate patterns.

The Aphrodite Fritillary Butterfly has a stocky body and long, slender antennae. Males and females have similar wing patterns, but females are generally larger.

Unique Behaviors: The Aphrodite Fritillary Butterfly exhibits several noteworthy behaviors. It is known for its slow and graceful flight, often gliding from flower to flower.

This species is commonly found in open habitats, including meadows, fields, and woodland edges.

The Aphrodite Fritillary Butterfly is primarily active during the warm summer months.

 It strongly prefers nectar-rich flowers such as milkweed, thistles, and coneflowers.

This butterfly also engages in basking behavior, resting on leaves or other surfaces to absorb warmth from the sun.

It is not uncommon to see multiple individuals of this species gathering in a localized area.

#18. Black Swallowtail Butterfly

Black Swallowtail
Black Swallowtail (Photo credit: canva.com)

Size: The Black Swallowtail is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan of 2.5-3.5 inches.

Features: The Black Swallowtail is distinguished by its black upper wings with bright yellow stripes and a large orange spot near the center of the forewing.

The undersides of the wings are orange with black markings. The Black Swallowtail also has a distinctive “tail” on the bottom of its hindwings.

Unique Behaviors: The Black Swallowtail butterfly is known for basking in the sun with its wings open.

This behavior helps the butterfly to warm up and regulate its body temperature.

The Black Swallowtail butterfly also has a unique way of flying. When it is in flight, the butterfly flaps its wings very rapidly, which gives it a darting appearance.

Behavior: The Black Swallowtail butterfly is a strong flyer and can migrate long distances.

The butterflies in North America migrate south in the fall and north in the spring. The Black Swallowtail butterfly is also known for depositing its eggs on the leaves of plants in the carrot family, such as Queen Anne’s lace and dill.

The caterpillars of the Black Swallowtail butterfly are poisonous, and their coloration warns predators away.

The Black Swallowtail butterfly is a common species in Virginia and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, and gardens.

The butterflies are active during the day and fly from flower to flower, feeding on nectar.

The Black Swallowtail butterfly has one to two broods per year, and the adults are seen from April to October.

#19. Little Yellow Sulphur

Little Yellow Sulphur
Little Yellow Sulphur (Photo credit: canva.com)

Size: The Little Yellow Sulphur Butterfly is a small butterfly with an average wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 6.4 cm). It is commonly found in Virginia and other parts of North America.

Features: This butterfly has distinct physical characteristics that make it easily recognizable.

The upper side of its wings is bright yellow, giving it a vibrant appearance. The wings are relatively broad and rounded, with a slightly scalloped edge.

The undersides of the wings are pale yellow or white, with faint greenish markings. The Little Yellow Sulphur Butterfly has a relatively slender body and long, slender antennae. Males and females have similar wing patterns.

Unique Behaviors: The Little Yellow Sulphur Butterfly exhibits several noteworthy behaviors.

It is known for its swift and erratic flight, often fluttering among low-growing vegetation and flowers.

This species is typically found in open habitats, fields, meadows, and gardens.

The Little Yellow Sulphur Butterfly is primarily active during the warm summer months.

It strongly prefers nectar-rich flowers, particularly those from the legume family.

This butterfly also engages in sunbathing behavior, resting with its wings open to absorb warmth from the sun.

It is not uncommon to see multiple individuals of this species congregating in sunny patches.

#20. Melissa Blue Butterfly

Melissa Blue Butterfly
Melissa Blue Butterfly (Photo credit:Ron Wolf/flickr.com)

Size: The Melissa Blue is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 1.5-2 inches.

Features: The Melissa Blue is distinguished by its blue upper wings with a black border and a series of white spots. The undersides of the wings are brown with blue markings.

The Melissa Blue also has a distinctive “tail” on the underside of its hindwings.

Unique Behaviors: The Melissa Blue butterfly is known for basking in the sun with its wings open.

This behavior helps the butterfly to warm up and regulate its body temperature. The Melissa Blue butterfly also has a unique way of flying. When it is in flight, the butterfly flaps its wings very rapidly, which gives it a darting appearance.

#21. Monarch Butterfly

Monarch
Monarch

Size: The Monarch Butterfly is known for its impressive size. It has an average wingspan ranging from 3.7 to 4.1 inches (9.4 to 10.4 cm)and a body length of about 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm). Both males and females are similar in size.

Features: The Monarch Butterfly is easily recognized by its distinct physical characteristics.

Its wings are orange with black veins and borders. The wings have a unique pattern of white spots along the edges.

The upper side of the wings is vibrant and eye-catching, making it one of the most recognizable butterflies in Virginia and North America.

The undersides of the wings are similar in color but slightly paler. The body of the Monarch Butterfly is black with white spots, and it has long, slender antennae.

Unique Behaviors:

One of its most famous behaviors is its long-distance migration. Monarchs undertake a remarkable journey from their breeding grounds in North America to overwintering sites in Mexico or Southern California.

This migration spans thousands of miles and involves multiple generations of butterflies.

Monarchs are also known for relying on milkweed plants, the sole host plants for their caterpillars.

The caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed leaves, and the toxins in the milkweed sap make the adult butterflies distasteful to predators.

This phenomenon is known as aposematism, where the bright colors of the Monarch serve as a warning to potential predators.

Additionally, Monarchs engage in a behavior called “hilltopping,” where they gather in large numbers on hilltops or other elevated sites, possibly for mating purposes or to orient themselves during migration.

#22. Orange Sulphur

Orange Sulphur
Orange Sulphur

Size: The Orange Sulphur is a small butterfly with a wingspan of 1.5-2 inches.

Features: The Orange Sulphur is distinguished by its bright orange upper wings with black borders and a black dot near the center of the forewing. The undersides of the wings are yellow with black markings.

Unique Behaviors: The Orange Sulphur butterfly is known for its erratic, jerky flight. The butterflies often fly low to the ground and may bask in the sun with open wings.

The Orange Sulphur butterfly is a nectar feeder found in habitats such as meadows, fields, and gardens.

The butterflies are active during the day and fly from flower to flower, feeding on nectar.

The Orange Sulphur butterfly has one to two broods per year, and the adults are seen from April to October.

The caterpillar of the Orange Sulphur butterfly feeds on clover, alfalfa, and other legumes.

The Orange Sulphur butterfly is a good indicator species, meaning that its presence indicates that the habitat is healthy.

The Orange Sulphur butterfly is a popular subject for butterfly watchers and

Conclusion: 22 Common Butterflies In Virginia: Pictures, Size, Features, Unique Behaviors

There are over 100 species of butterflies in Virginia, but we can identify 22 common butterflies in Virginia; we have seen pictures of butterflies in Virginia, features and looked at their sizes, and it is worth noting that some of these butterflies in Virginia have unique behaviors like erratic, jerky flight, hill-topping, aposematism, basking in the sun with its wings open and other behaviors.

Knowing all these features and unique behaviors of Virginia butterflies will aid in butterfly identification in Virginia.

We hope you find this butterfly guide for Virginia interesting; if so, you can subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates about butterflies and homesteading.