Butterflies at Home



Viceroy Butterfly

Viceroy Butterfly Coloration and Size

The Viceroy butterfly (Limenitis archippus) is nearly identical to the Monarch butterfly. It has orange-brown wings with dark black veins. A black line across the hind wing distinguishes it from the Monarch.

Its wingspan is in the 2.6" - 3.0" range.

Distribution and Habitat

It can be found over a wide geographical area, from southern Canada to central Mexico.

Host Plants Used by the Viceroy Butterfly

Host plants include cottonwoods, willows, aspen, cherry, apple, and plum.

Viceroy Butterfly Life Cycle Stages and Times

Stage Typical Duration
Egg stage 4 to 9 days
Caterpillar (larval) stage 3 to 4 weeks
Chrysalis (pupal) stage 7 to 14 days (except for overwintering pupae)
Adult butterfly stage 6 to 14 days

 

Photos of Viceroy Butterflies

Viceroy Butterfly
Viceroy Butterfly

Viceroy Butterfly (dorsal view)
Viceroy Butterfly

Viceroy Butterfly (ventral view)
Viceroy Butterfly


Similar to the Viceroy ... the Monarch Butterfly
Monarch Butterfly

 

Side-by-side comparison of Monarch Butterfly Look-Alikes: Queen, Viceroy and Soldier

Shown below is a spotting guide to butterflies that are similar in coloration and markings to the Monarch. Included are the Viceroy, Queen and Soldier ... the "Royal Court of Butterflies" !

Side-by-side comparison of Monarch Butterfly Look-Alikes: Queen, Viceroy and Soldier