Missouri is home to a diverse collection of butterflies, there are about 190 species of Missouri Butterflies, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation which includes both native and non-native species each with its own unique characteristics.
The state’s rich biodiversity and varied habitat characteristics create the perfect environment for these captivating insects to thrive. From pristine forests and grasslands to wetlands and meadows, these diverse ecosystems support a thriving butterfly population.
In this guide, you will learn about common types of Missouri Butterflies, their classification, size, identifying features, and their unique behavior.
Also see: Maine Butterflies: 22 Species You Should Know About
Common Types of Missouri Butterflies
A large number of butterfly species can be found in the state of Missouri. Let’s take a look at some of the most types that can be found in the state:
A. Swallowtail Butterflies
#1. Eastern Tiger Swallowtail:
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Papilionidae | Papilio | Glaucus |
Size: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, a beautiful butterfly found in Missouri, has an average wingspan ranging from 3.5 to 6.7 inches (9 to 17 cm), and a body length of approximately 2.7 to 4.5 inches (7 to 11 cm)
Identifying Features: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail showcases distinct physical characteristics that make it instantly recognizable. Its wings, predominantly yellow, are decorated with bold black stripes.
These stripes serve as a striking contrast against the vibrant yellow, creating a captivating visual effect.
You will also find in the wings, an eye-catching blue coloration near the tail, adding to the butterfly’s charm.
Unique Behaviors: One remarkable behavior is their mastery of mimicry. The butterfly mimics the colors and patterns of the Pipevine Swallowtail, a toxic butterfly, as a form of protection against predators.
This mimicry signals to potential threats that they are not to be played with, which would save them from attacks.
#2. Spicebush Swallowtail:
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Papilionidae | Papilio | P. troilus |
Size: The males typically have a wingspan of 3.2 to 4.5 inches (8.1 to 11.4 cm), while the females are slightly larger, with a wingspan ranging from 3.5 to 4.7 inches (8.9 to 11.9 cm).
These measurements make the Spicebush Swallowtail one of the larger butterfly species found in Missouri.
Identifying Features: Its wings are predominantly black, with a beautiful iridescent blue coloration on the upper side of the hind wings.
The black wings have elegant orange spots near the edges, adding vibrancy to its overall appearance. Along the forewings, there is a prominent row of whitish-blue spots.
The butterfly’s body is slender and covered in fine, black hairs. Combining these features makes the Spicebush Swallowtail easily recognizable.
Unique Behaviors: The Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly exhibits several remarkable behaviors and habits, making it a fascinating species to study. One interesting behavior is its ability to mimic toxic butterflies.
By imitating the color patterns and behaviors of the Pipevine Swallowtail and the Tiger Swallowtail, which possess poisonous compounds, the Spicebush Swallowtail gains protection from potential predators.
This form of mimicry is known as Batesian mimicry and allows the butterfly to ward off predation simply through its visual appearance.
B. White and Sulphur Butterflies
#1. Cabbage White Butterfly:
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Pieridae | Pieris | P. rapae |
Size: The average wingspan of the Cabbage White Butterfly is between 1.8 and 2.4 inches (4.5 to 6 cm). It is a relatively small butterfly, but its beauty still shines through.
Identifying Features: Its wings are predominantly white, with small black spots adorning the upper sides. When the butterfly rests, the undersides of its wings reveal a pale yellow coloration.
These color patterns allow it to camouflage effectively in different environments.
The butterfly’s body is slender and elongated, decorated with black antennae at the head. The antennae of the male butterfly are notably thinner and longer than the females.
Unique Behaviors: One remarkable behavior is its ability to produce a substance called “frass.” Frass refers to the caterpillar’s excrement, which plays a vital role in protecting it from predators. The frass acts as a deterrent, preventing predators from recognizing the caterpillar as a potential prey item.
#2. Clouded Sulfur Butterfly:
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Pieridae | Colias | C. philodice |
The Clouded Sulfur Butterfly, scientifically known as Colias philodice, is a fascinating species you can find in Missouri.
Size: Clouded Sulfur Butterflies typically have an average wingspan of around 3 to 3.5 inches, with some butterflies reaching up to 4 inches. In terms of overall size, their wingspan is a significant characteristic that makes them noticeable.
Identifying Features: One of the key features that set the Clouded Sulfur Butterfly apart is its vibrant coloration.
The upper side of the wings displays a golden-yellow hue with hints of orange, while the undersides are lighter and possess a pale greenish-gray color. These colors aid in camouflage and provide protection against predators.
Also noticeable are the wings which have distinct black borders and scattered black spots, adding to their uniqueness.
The males usually have a bright yellow color, while the females have a paler shade.
Unique Behaviors: During mating season, males engage in elaborate courtship displays to attract females. These displays involve aerial maneuvers and fluttering patterns that showcase their vibrant wings.
#3. Orange Sulphur Butterfly:
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Pieridae | Colias | C. eurytheme |
Size: The Orange Sulphur butterfly have an average wingspan of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches.
While females tend to be on the larger side, with a wingspan of up to 2.5 inches, males are relatively smaller, measuring around 1.5 inches.
Identifying Features: The distinctive physical characteristics of the Orange Sulphur Butterfly make it easily recognizable among its winged counterparts.
Its wings are predominantly bright orange, with black margins and veins highlighting the vibrant color.
The forewings of both males and females display a darker pattern near the tip, adding elaborate detail to its overall appearance.
Upon closer inspection, one may notice a slight difference in coloration between the males and the females.
While males tend to have a more intense orange hue, females may feature a paler shade.
Additionally, some of them may exhibit a faint yellowish tint on their wings, adding a subtle variation to their beauty.
Unique Behaviors: Apart from its mesmerizing appearance, the Orange Sulphur Butterfly also boasts some unique behaviors that set it apart from other butterfly species.
One notable behavior is their ability to migrate in large numbers. These Missouri butterflies undertake a remarkable journey, covering vast distances as they move from one location to another, often searching for better food sources or suitable habitats.
C. Gossamer-Winged Butterflies
#1. Variegated Fritillary
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Nymphalidae | Euptoieta | E. claudia |
The Variegated Fritillary showcases a mesmerizing array of bright orange wings with intricate black patterns.
Its preference for open areas and prairies makes it a common sight in Missouri’s grasslands.
Size: The Variegated Fritillary showcases a moderately sized wingspan, averaging 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Although not the largest butterfly species.
Identifying Features: Its wings display an exquisite combination of orange, brown, and black hues, forming intricate patterns that catch the eye.
The upper side of the wings exhibits prominent spots and iridescence, adding to its allure. Moreover, the butterfly’s body is reddish-brown, further enhancing its unique appearance.
Unique Behaviors: One striking habit of this species is its preference for open habitats, such as fields and meadows, where it actively seeks nectar from various flowering plants.
These butterflies are particularly attracted to milkweed, thistle, and asters, among other favorites.
#2. Silver-bordered Fritillary:
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Nymphalidae | Euptoieta | E. claudia |
The Silver-bordered Fritillary is found in wet meadows, bogs, and marshes. It is a common butterfly in Missouri.
Size: The Silver-bordered Fritillary has a wingspan of 1.6 to 2.1 inches (4 to 5.3 cm). It is a small butterfly, about the size of a ladybird beetle.
Features: The Silver-bordered Fritillary is orange with black markings. The wings of the butterfly have thin white edges and black borders, with orange dots inside.
Underneath of the wing has metallic, silvery dots along the edge, which is how the Missouri butterfly species got its name.
Unique Behaviors: The Silver-bordered Fritillary is a homebody that does not disperse enthusiastically from the enclaves where it is found.
Males patrol for females. Females lay eggs on violets, their caterpillars’ sole food plants.
The Silver-bordered Fritillary has one flight from June to July in the north, and two to three flights from May to September in the east.
#3. Great Spangled Fritillary
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Nymphalidae | Speyeria | S. cybele |
With its bold orange wings highlighted by metallic silver spots, the Great Spangled Fritillary is one of the native butterflies of Missouri. Its love for milkweed plants makes it an important pollinator in Missouri’s ecosystem.
Size: The Great Spangled Fritillary has a wingspan of 2.5 to 3.5 inches (6.3 to 9 cm). It is a large butterfly, about the size of a bumblebee.
Features: The Great Spangled Fritillary is orange with black markings. The wings of these butterflies have white edges and a thick black border, it also has orange dots inside.
Underneath of the wing, you will find silvery white spots on a dark brown background, also present is a tan band along the outer margin. Females are darker than males.
Unique Behaviors: The Great Spangled Fritillary is a strong flier and can travel long distances.
It is also a gregarious butterfly and often flies in groups. Males patrol for females, often engaging in aerial combat with other males.
Females lay their eggs on violets leaves and stems.
D. Brush-Footed Butterflies
#1. Monarch Butterfly
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Nymphalidae | Danaus | D. plexippus |
The Monarch Butterfly is found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, forests, and gardens. It is a common butterfly in Missouri and can be seen from April to October.
Size: The Monarch Butterfly has a wingspan of 3.5 to 4.7 inches (9 to 12 cm). It is a medium-sized butterfly, about the size of a sparrow.
Features: The Monarch Butterfly is orange with black markings. The wings have white and black borders with orange dots inside.
Underneath the wing is orange, with black veins and white spots. The Monarch Butterfly is easily recognizable by its distinctive orange and black coloration.
Unique Behaviors: The Monarch Butterfly is known for its long-distance migration. Monarchs in North America migrate from Canada and the northeastern United States to Mexico for the winter.
The migration is a multigenerational journey; each butterfly only lives for about 2-4 weeks.
Monarchs also have a special relationship with milkweed plants. The caterpillars of Monarchs feed exclusively on milkweed plants, which contain chemicals that make the Monarchs poisonous to predators.
#2. Viceroy Butterfly
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Nymphalidae | Limenitis | L. archippus |
Often mistaken for the Monarch as it was long thought to be a mimic of the Monarch butterfly, the Viceroy Butterfly showcases a similar orange and black pattern.
Its presence in Missouri adds to the region’s spectacular display of brush-footed butterflies.
Size: The Viceroy Butterfly (Limenitis archippus) in Missouri boasts an average wingspan of 2.5 to 3.5 inches (6.4 to 8.9 cm) and an overall size similar to the closely related Monarch Butterfly.
Identifying Features: This captivating species possesses distinct physical characteristics that set it apart, such as its vibrant orange-brown wings which have designs of black veins and white spots, mimicking the toxic Monarch’s appearance.
Unique behavior: Notably, the Viceroy Butterfly displays an unusual behavior called “hilltopping,” where males gather atop hills to attract females.
This butterfly’s remarkable mimicry and intriguing behaviors make it a fascinating resident of Missouri’s natural landscapes.
#3. Red Admiral Butterfly
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Nymphalidae | Vanessa | V. atalanta |
The Red Admiral Butterfly (Vanessa atalanta) which was formerly known as red admirable is known for its distinctive black wings marked with red-orange bands.
Size: The Red Admiral Butterfly (Vanessa atalanta) found in Missouri showcases an average wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches (6.4 to 7.6 cm) and an overall size comparable to other medium-sized butterflies.
Identifying Features: This species exhibits distinct physical characteristics, including its striking black wings adorned with vibrant red-orange bands and white spots near the wingtips.
A distinguishing feature is the conspicuous white bands on the wings, which are more pronounced in females.
Unique behavior: Red Admirals are known for their migratory behavior, with individuals undertaking extensive journeys to seek suitable breeding and feeding grounds.
These butterflies are also attracted to fermenting fruit, making them a delight to observe in gardens or orchards.
It is common for male red admirals to perch in their territories from early afternoon until dusk. While larger territories are ideal, they are more vulnerable to invasion from rival males.
E. Metalmark Butterflies
#1. Coral Hairstreak
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Satyrium | S. titus |
The Coral Hairstreak’s (Satyrium titus) with its shimmering coral-colored wings and delicate markings make it a true gem in the Missouri butterfly habitat. Its presence in woodland areas brings a touch of elegance to the forest.
Size: It showcases an average wingspan of about 1 to 1.25 inches (2.5 to 3.2 cm) and a relatively small overall size compared to other butterfly species.
Identifying Features: This delicate butterfly features distinct physical characteristics, including its brownish-black wings adorned with intricate orange markings along the edges. Notably, the undersides of its wings display a vibrant coral-colored band, giving the species its name.
Unique behavior: The Coral Hairstreak exhibits a unique behavior called “puddling,” where males congregate on damp soil or mud to extract essential minerals and nutrients.
This species can often be found in woodland areas and open meadows, adding a touch of beauty to Missouri’s natural landscapes.
#2. Northern Metalmark
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Satyrium | S. titus |
Calephelis borealis which is commonly known as Northern Metalmark is recognized by its bright orange wings with intricate black markings, the Northern Metalmark stands out in Missouri’s grasslands. Its preference for prairies and open fields adds a unique touch to the butterfly diversity in Missouri.
Size: It is a small butterfly with an average wingspan of about 1 to 1.25 inches (2.5 to 3.2 cm).
Features: Despite its diminutive size, its distinct physical characteristics set it apart. This species features striking black wings adorned with metallic blue-green spots and bands, creating a captivating iridescent appearance.
The upper side of its hindwings displays a distinctive orange patch near the body.
Unique behaviors: Unique behaviors of the Northern Metalmark include its preference for nectar from thistle and milkweed flowers and its habit of basking in the sun with its wings open.
F. Skipper Butterflies
#1. Silver-spotted Skipper
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Hesperiidae | Epargyreus | E. clarus |
The Silver-spotted Skipper is named after the silvery spots on its dark brown wings. Its rapid and darting flight pattern makes it a challenging sight to capture. It is said to be the most popular skipper.
Size: The Silver-spotted Skipper (Epargyreus clarus) found in Missouri showcases an average wingspan of 1.75 to 2.75 inches (4.4 to 7 cm) and an overall medium-sized build.
Identifying Features: This butterfly is characterized by its distinct physical features, including dark brown wings with a prominent silver-white spot near the center of the hindwing, surrounded by smaller white spots.
Its body is firm and hairy, with a brownish coloration.
Unique Behavior: The Silver-spotted Skipper is known for its unusual behavior of perching with its wings open, exposing the silver spot, and sunbathing to regulate its body temperature.
This species is a frequent visitor to flowers, particularly those with a sweet scent.
#2. Long-tailed Skipper
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Hesperiidae | Epargyreus | E. clarus |
True to its name, the Long-tailed Skipper has elongated tails on its hindwings. Its captivating flight and preference for gardens make it a delightful visitor to Missouri yards.
Size: It has an average wingspan of 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) and a small to medium-sized build.
Identifying Features: This butterfly exhibits distinct physical characteristics that set it apart. Its wings are predominantly dark brown, adorned with a series of white spots along the edges.
The hindwing features a long, slender tail, which gives the species its name.
Unique Behavior: The Long-tailed Skipper is known for its unique behavior of frequenting various host plants, including legumes, where the caterpillars feed.
Additionally, males are known to engage in territorial behavior, chasing away intruders from their preferred feeding and mating sites.
#3. Zabulon Skipper
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Hesperiidae | Lon | L. zabulon |
The Zabulon Skipper stands out with its vibrant orange wings marked with brown chevron patterns. Its affinity for open grassy areas adds a touch of vibrancy to Missouri’s landscapes.
Size: An average wingspan of 1.25 to 1.5 inches (3.2 to 3.8 cm) and a small to medium-sized build.
Identifying Features: This butterfly possesses distinct physical characteristics that set it apart. Its wings are mostly brown, with a distinctive pale yellow or whitish patch near the tips of the forewings. The wings also feature small, dark spots along the edges.
Unique Behavior: The Zabulon Skipper exhibits unique behaviors, such as its preference for grassy habitats and habit of perching on tall grass blades to bask in the sunlight.
This species is known for its rapid and erratic flight patterns, making it a challenge to observe closely.
G. Blue Butterflies
#1. Eastern Tailed-Blue
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Cupido | C. comyntas |
The Eastern Tailed-Blue Butterfly (Cupido comyntas) which is also called Everes comyntas, is a small yet captivating species with grayish-blue wings and delicate tail-like projections on its hindwings.
Its presence in Missouri’s grasslands adds to the state’s natural charm.
Size: It is a small butterfly with an average wingspan of about 0.75 to 1 inch (1.9 to 2.5 cm).
Identifying Features: This species exhibits distinct physical characteristics that set it apart. Its upper wings are a vibrant blue, while the undersides feature a mix of gray and brown with orange spots near the hindwing tails.
The tails, resembling small tails on the hindwings, are a notable feature. Eastern Tailed-Blue butterflies are known for their rapid and darting flight patterns, making them challenging to follow.
Unique Behavior: They also have a unique behavior of perching on low vegetation with their wings closed, resembling a dried leaf.
This species adds a touch of beauty to the Missouri landscape with its stunning colors and interesting behaviors.
#2. Karner Blue
| TAXONOMY | ||||||
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus | Species |
| Animalia | Arthropoda | Insecta | Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Plebejus | P. samuelis |
The Karner Blue Butterfly (Plebejus samuelis) is widely celebrated for its stunning blue wings marked with black spots. Its association with the wild lupine plant makes it essential to Missouri’s delicate ecosystems.
The Karner Blue butterfly is a rare and endangered butterfly species historically inhabited parts of Missouri. However, their presence in Missouri is extremely limited due to habitat loss.
Size: The Karner Blue is a small butterfly with an average wingspan of about 0.75 to 1.25 inches (1.9 to 3.2 cm)
Identifying Features: This species possesses distinct physical characteristics. The males have iridescent blue wings with a narrow black border, while the females exhibit a more subdued grayish-blue coloration with darker markings.
Both genders have orange crescents along the margins of their wings.
Unique Behaviors: The Karner Blue has a specialized habitat requirement. Its caterpillars feed exclusively on wild lupine plants, and the adults rely on nectar from various flowering plants.
This butterfly also exhibits a limited flight range and tends to stay close to its habitat.
Identifying Missouri Butterflies
When attempting to identify different species of butterflies, you should concentrate on key features and distinguishing characteristics.
Missouri butterfly identification can be carried out more accurately by classifying with detailed descriptions and observations of wing patterns, colors, size, and flight behavior.
Importance of Butterfly Conservation in Missouri
Butterflies as pollinators in Missouri, butterflies play a significant part in plant reproduction, which benefits various plant species.
The protection of these delicate insects is absolutely necessary in order to maintain the state of Missouri’s diverse ecosystems and Missouri butterfly conservation.
It is essential to preserve the delicate balance in nature throughout the state to make efforts and take initiatives to protect butterfly populations.
Missouri Butterfly Habitats
There are many different environments that Missouri butterflies can be found in, and each habitat has its own set of characteristics.
These ecosystems, which can range from prairies and woodlands to wetlands and gardens, are important for the continued existence of butterflies.
It is necessary to implement conservation strategies such as restoring and preserving habitats to guarantee the stability of these essential habitats.
Seasonality and Missouri butterfly migration patterns
Understanding the seasonal occurrence of Missouri butterflies is key to observing them in their natural habitats.
Many butterfly species exhibit distinct migration patterns, with some traveling great distances.
Missouri’s unique geography and climate contribute to the presence of notable butterfly
migrations, providing nature enthusiasts with awe-inspiring spectacles.
Threats and Challenges to Missouri Butterflies
Butterfly populations in Missouri face numerous threats and challenges. Climate change, habitat loss due to urbanization and agricultural practices, and pesticide use all pose significant risks to these delicate creatures.
Raising awareness and implementing conservation measures are crucial to mitigating these threatened butterfly species in Missouri and preserving butterfly populations.
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Conclusion
Throughout this article, we have explored common and native Missouri butterflies. Each species contributes to the state’s remarkable butterfly biodiversity, from the majestic Monarchs to the elusive Karner Blues.
Their unique characteristics and distinguishing features add to the enchantment of Missouri’s natural wonders.
Missouri butterflies are a visual delight and important contributors to the ecosystem as graceful pollinators.
By appreciating and protecting these Missouri butterflies, we preserve the enchanting dance of their wings and ensure the continuity of their melodious presence in Missouri’s natural landscapes.
Let us embrace our role as stewards of nature and celebrate the remarkable world of Missouri butterflies.