Butterflies

Butterfly and Moth Image Gallery : Butterflies

Limenitis archippus (Viceroy)

The Viceroy is a large orange-brown butterfly with black borders and a row of white spots. The wingspan is from 3 to 4 inches. It can be distinguished from the larger Monarch by the presence of a thin black line across the center of the hindwing. The similarity to the Monarch is protective coloration, mimicry of another species.

This species lives along streams, near marshes, or near other wet areas where its larval host plants live. It is found in most areas of Illinois. There are several generations per year. The host plants (on which the females lay eggs) are willows, poplars, and fruit trees such as plums, apples, and wild cherries. The semi-grown larvae overwinter on these plants.

Collection of the Illinois State Museum
Photographed by Dr. Everett Cashatt
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Butterfly and Moth Image Gallery : Butterflies

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