This comprehensive guide aims to assist readers in identifying 12 common Wisconsin butterflies. By providing detailed descriptions and accompanying pictures, we hope to make the identification process accessible and enjoyable for both beginners and experienced butterfly enthusiasts.
Wisconsin is home to more than one hundred different species of butterflies. Wisconsin does not have a butterfly that is recognized as the state butterfly, even though these insects are numerous.
Since it would be impossible to cover all of over 100 Wisconsin butterflies in this single post, we will be learning how to identify 12 common types with pictures.
Also see: Missouri Butterflies: Classification and Identification with Pictures
Let’s dive in.
Butterfly Species in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is blessed with a plethora of butterfly species, making it a haven for nature lovers to explore.
Approximate Number of Butterfly Species in Wisconsin:
Over 100 species of butterflies have been documented in Wisconsin, showcasing the state’s remarkable biodiversity.
Habitat Diversity:
Butterflies in Wisconsin can be found in a range of habitats, each supporting different species and contributing to the overall butterfly diversity.
Some notable habitats include:
Prairies:
Wisconsin is known for its beautiful prairies, which host numerous butterfly species.
These open grasslands provide ample nectar sources and caterpillar host plants, attracting butterflies such as the Eastern Tailed-Blue, Common Wood-Nymph, and Silver-bordered Fritillary.
Woodlands:
Forested areas in Wisconsin are home to a variety of butterfly species. Butterflies like the Mourning Cloak, Red-spotted Purple, and Viceroy can be found in woodland habitats, especially near forest edges and trails.
Wetlands:
Wetlands, including marshes, swamps, and boggy areas, support a unique set of butterfly species.
These habitats are favored by butterflies such as the Great Spangled Fritillary, Pearl Crescent, and Common Ringlet.
Meadows and Fields:
Open meadows and fields provide a diverse range of flowering plants, attracting butterflies that thrive in these sunny and grassy environments.
Species like the Monarch, Painted Lady, and Clouded Sulphur can be frequently observed in such areas.
Migration Routes:
Wisconsin also serves as a stopover or breeding ground for migratory butterfly species.
Notably, the Monarch butterfly undergoes an incredible multi-generational migration, passing through Wisconsin during its journey to and from its overwintering sites in Mexico.
The varied landscapes of Wisconsin offer a mosaic of habitats that support a wide range of butterfly species.
Exploring these habitats with a keen eye and a sense of wonder allows you to witness the beauty and diversity of Wisconsin’s butterfly population firsthand.
12 Common butterflies found in Wisconsin
#1. Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a magnificent butterfly species commonly found in Wisconsin.
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a large butterfly with a wingspan of approximately 3.5 to 5.5 inches (9 to 14 cm).
Its wings exhibit a stunning combination of vibrant yellow and black colors.
The female Eastern Tiger Swallowtail comes in two color variations: yellow and black, while the male is predominantly yellow.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings displays striking black tiger stripes, giving the butterfly its name. The hindwing features lustrous blue spots near the tail.
Identifying Features: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is characterized by its large size, bold coloration, and distinctive wing patterns. The black stripes on its yellow wings make it relatively easy to identify. The presence of blue spots on the hindwing further aids in distinguishing this species from other swallowtails.
Behaviors: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails are often seen gracefully fluttering from flower to flower, sipping nectar with their long proboscis.
They are attracted to a variety of flowering plants, including milkweeds, thistles, and red clover.
Female Eastern Tiger Swallowtails lay their eggs on host plants such as tulip trees, birches, and cherries, where the caterpillars feed and eventually undergo metamorphosis.
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a remarkable butterfly species that adds splendor to Wisconsin’s natural landscapes.
#2. Cabbage White Butterfly
The Cabbage White is a common butterfly species found in Wisconsin.
The Cabbage White is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 1.6 to 2.4 inches (4 to 6 cm). It has predominantly white wings with grayish-black markings near the tips. The male and female Cabbage Whites have similar coloration.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is mostly white, while the undersides have a pale yellowish-green coloration. The tips of the forewings display black markings, forming a distinct pattern.
Behaviors: Cabbage Whites are known for their rapid and erratic flight. They can be observed fluttering around open areas, including gardens, meadows, and agricultural fields.
As their name suggests, they prefer plants from the cabbage family, including cabbage, kale, and mustard plants.
Female Cabbage Whites lay their eggs on the undersides of these host plants, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves.
#3. Monarch Butterfly
The Monarch butterfly is a well-known and iconic species found in Wisconsin.
The Monarch is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 3.7 to 4.1 inches (9.4 to 10.4 cm).
It has bright orange wings with thick black veins and borders. The wings are adorned with white spots along the black borders.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is primarily orange with black veins and borders.
The black borders are wider and more prominent on the outer edges of the wings. The undersides of the wings are similar in coloration but have additional black veins and spots.
Behaviors: Monarchs are known for their remarkable long-distance migrations, covering thousands of miles between their breeding and overwintering sites.
They rely on milkweed plants as their host plants, where they lay their eggs.
The caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed leaves, which contain toxins that make the Monarch and its caterpillars unpalatable to predators.
#4. Painted Lady
The Painted Lady butterfly is a highly migratory species found in Wisconsin.
The Painted Lady is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 2.0 to 2.9 inches (5.1 to 7.4 cm).
It has delicate wings that are predominantly orange-brown in color. The wings are adorned with black and white spots, giving them a beautiful and intricate appearance.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings has a mix of orange-brown coloration with black and white spots.
The orange-brown color is more prominent near the wing bases, gradually transitioning into a lighter shade towards the outer edges.
The undersides of the wings are paler with similar black and white spots.
Behaviors: The Painted Lady is known for its impressive migratory abilities. It undergoes extensive annual migrations, covering vast distances across continents.
These migratory journeys can span thousands of miles, showcasing the remarkable endurance and adaptability of this species.
Painted Lady butterflies are commonly found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, gardens, and even urban areas.
#5. Red Admiral
The Red Admiral butterfly is a medium-sized butterfly species commonly found in Wisconsin.
The Red Admiral butterfly has a wingspan ranging from 2.6 to 3.0 inches (6.6 to 7.6 cm), making it a medium-sized butterfly.
It features predominantly black wings with red bands and white spots. The wings have a slightly angular shape, giving the butterfly a distinct appearance.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is primarily black with red-orange bands crossing diagonally from the top edge towards the center of the wings. The red bands are bordered with thin white lines, adding to the butterfly’s striking coloration. There are also white spots scattered across the wings, enhancing their overall pattern.
Behaviors: The Red Admiral is known for its swift flight and agility. It can be seen fluttering swiftly among flowers and around feeding areas.
It has a preference for rotting fruits and tree sap, and it’s also attracted to nectar-rich flowers.
This butterfly species has a strong migratory behavior and can be found in Wisconsin during the summer months.
Red Admirals are commonly found in various habitats, including gardens, woodlands, parks, and open areas.
#6. Mourning Cloak Butterfly
The Mourning Cloak butterfly is a captivating species commonly found in Wisconsin.
The Mourning Cloak butterfly has a wingspan ranging from 2.4 to 4.3 inches (6 to 11 cm), making it a medium-sized butterfly.
It features dark maroon-brown wings with a yellow border. The wings have a slightly scalloped edge, giving them a distinct shape.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is predominantly dark maroon-brown, while the outer edge is adorned with a vibrant yellow border.
The border exhibits a scalloped pattern, adding to the butterfly’s visual appeal.
The underside of the wings is lighter in color, with a mottled pattern featuring various shades of brown and cream.
Behaviors: The Mourning Cloak butterfly is one of the first butterflies to emerge in spring, often seen fluttering near forest edges, trails, and sunlit clearings. It has a graceful flight and can cover significant distances. This species is known for its habit of basking in the sun with its wings open, absorbing heat to increase its body temperature.
It feeds on tree sap, rotting fruits, and occasionally flower nectar.
#7. Silver-bordered Fritillary Butterfly
The Silver-bordered Fritillary is a beautiful butterfly species that can be found in Wisconsin.
The Silver-bordered Fritillary is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 1.8 to 2.6 inches (4.5 to 6.5 cm).
It has vibrant orange-brown wings with black spots and silver borders. The wings have a slightly scalloped edge, adding to their visual appeal.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is predominantly orange-brown with black spots scattered across the wingspan.
The outer edge of the wings is adorned with a silver border, which gives the butterfly its name.
The underside of the wings is lighter in color, with a mottled pattern featuring shades of brown and cream.
Behaviors: Silver-bordered Fritillaries can be seen fluttering in open meadows and grasslands.
Silver-bordered Fritillaries are active during the day and are particularly attracted to nectar-rich flowers.
These butterflies have a swift and direct flight, often flying close to the ground.
They are known to be territorial and may engage in aerial pursuits to defend their territory.
The Silver-bordered Fritillary is a species commonly found in open habitats, including meadows, prairies, and grasslands.
Its vibrant coloration and distinct silver-bordered wings make it a stunning sight for butterfly enthusiasts.
Observing its swift flight and territorial behavior adds excitement to the experience of encountering this butterfly in the Wisconsin landscape.
#8. Great Spangled Fritillary
The Great Spangled Fritillary is another fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Wisconsin.
Let’s explore its physical characteristics and unique features:
The Great Spangled Fritillary is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 inches (6.3 to 8.9 cm).
It has vibrant orange wings with black markings and silver spots. The wings have a slightly scalloped edge, adding to their visual appeal.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is predominantly orange with black markings, including lines and spots.
The silver spots are scattered across the wings, creating a dazzling effect when viewed in sunlight.
The underside of the wings is lighter in color, with a mottled pattern featuring shades of orange, brown, and cream.
Behaviors: Great Spangled Fritillaries can be seen fluttering in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and woodland edges.
They are active during the day and are attracted to nectar-rich flowers, particularly those of the milkweed family.
These butterflies have a strong and direct flight, but they may occasionally pause to rest and feed on flowers.
The Great Spangled Fritillary is a species that adds a vibrant burst of color to Wisconsin’s natural landscapes.
Their bold orange wings adorned with intricate black markings and silver spots make them a delight to observe.
Watching them as they gracefully flutter from flower to flower enhances the beauty of any outdoor experience.
#9. Pearl Crescent Butterfly
The Pearl Crescent is a charming butterfly species that can be found in Wisconsin.
Physical Characteristics: The Pearl Crescent is a small butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 1.25 to 1.75 inches (3.2 to 4.4 cm).
Pearl Crescent has orange-brown wings with black markings. The wings are relatively rounded and have a delicate appearance.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is primarily orange-brown with black markings that form intricate patterns.
These markings consist of thin lines, dots, and crescent-shaped spots. The underside of the wings is lighter in color with a marbled pattern, featuring shades of orange, brown, and black.
Behaviors: Pearl Crescents are active butterflies commonly found in open areas such as meadows, fields, and roadsides.
Pearl Crescent are agile flyers and can move swiftly from one flower to another. These butterflies have a preference for nectar-rich flowers, particularly those of the aster family.
Pearl Crescent butterflies may also engage in puddling behavior, where they gather on moist ground to extract nutrients and minerals.
#10. Eastern Comma
The Eastern Comma is a fascinating butterfly species that can be found in Wisconsin.
Physical Characteristics: The Eastern Comma is a medium-sized butterfly with a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches (3.8 to 6.4 cm).
Eastern Comma wings are irregularly shaped and have a distinct orange-brown coloration.
The outer edges of the wings have dark brown borders, resembling the shape of a comma. The wings also feature dark brown patches and intricate patterns.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is predominantly orange-brown with dark brown patches and a dark brown border along the outer edges.
The underside of the wings is more mottled in appearance, with a combination of lighter and darker shades of brown and orange.
When the wings are closed, the comma-shaped dark brown border on the hindwing is particularly noticeable.
Behaviors: Eastern Commas prefer woodland habitats and are known to hibernate during the winter months.
Eastern Comma butterflies have a habit of basking in sunlight, often perching with their wings spread open to absorb warmth. This behavior helps them regulate their body temperature.
Eastern Commas also have a relatively slow flight, with a characteristic gliding motion.
#11. Question Mark butterfly
The Question Mark butterfly is another fascinating species that can be found in Wisconsin. Let’s explore its physical characteristics and unique features:
Physical Characteristics: The Question Mark butterfly is a medium-sized species with a wingspan ranging from 2.2 to 2.8 inches (5.6 to 7.1 cm).
Question Mark butterfly’s wings have a primarily brown coloration with intricate patterns and markings. The underside of the wings has a unique silver-shaped mark resembling a question mark, which gives this butterfly its name.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is predominantly brown with darker brown markings and patterns.
The outer edges of the wings have irregular wavy lines. The underside of the wings is lighter in color, with a silver-shaped mark resembling a question mark on the hindwing.
The silver mark stands out prominently against the brown background.
Behaviors: Question Mark butterflies are commonly found in wooded areas where they can blend in with the surroundings.
Question Mark butterflies have a preference for rotting fruits and tree sap as food sources.
These butterflies have a relatively swift flight and can often be observed basking in the sunlight, warming themselves on rocks or tree trunks.
When encountering a Question Mark butterfly in the wild, take note of its brown coloration, intricate wing patterns, and, most notably, the silver-shaped mark resembling a question mark on the underside of its hindwing.
#12. Red-spotted Purple
The Red-spotted Purple butterfly is an intriguing species found in Wisconsin. Let’s delve into its physical characteristics and unique features:
Physical Characteristics: The Red-spotted Purple butterfly is a medium-sized species with a wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 inches (6.4 to 8.9 cm).
Its wings have a dark blue-black coloration with iridescent blue scales, giving it a mesmerizing sheen.
The upper side of the wings is adorned with red spots near the edges, which are more visible when the butterfly is in flight.
Wing Patterns: The upper side of the wings is predominantly dark blue-black, but it can appear iridescent blue under certain lighting conditions.
The wings also exhibit an intricate pattern of lines and veins. Near the outer edges of the wings, you can observe a series of red spots, which are more prominent on the hindwings.
Behaviors: Red-spotted Purple butterflies are known for their mimicry of the poisonous Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly.
This mimicry helps protect them from predators. They are often found in woodland areas, flying gracefully among the trees.
These butterflies have a strong preference for forested habitats and can occasionally be seen near streams or moist areas.
When encountering a Red-spotted Purple butterfly in Wisconsin, look for its medium size, dark blue-black wings with iridescent blue scales, and the red spots near the edges of the wings.
These characteristics, combined with their graceful flight in woodland areas, will help you identify this captivating species.
Take the time to appreciate the Red-spotted Purple butterfly’s remarkable mimicry and its role in Wisconsin’s ecosystems.
By respecting their natural habitats and contributing to conservation efforts, we can ensure the continued presence of these enchanting butterflies for future generations to admire.
Conclusion
This article provided a comprehensive guide on identifying 12 common types of Wisconsin butterflies, complete with pictures and detailed descriptions.
Wisconsin’s diverse landscapes provide a thriving habitat for many butterfly species. By familiarizing yourself with the common types of butterflies found in the state, you can enhance your nature experiences and contribute to their conservation.