The Dazzling Diversity of Butterflies in Texas

Texas is home to a stunning variety of butterfly species With its diverse range of habitats including coastal plains, prairies, forests and deserts, the Lone Star State provides the perfect backdrop for over 400 species of butterflies From the tiniest blues to the large, majestic swallowtails, butterflies across the state delight residents and visitors alike with their beauty and grace.

Why Such Abundant Butterfly Life in Texas?

Several factors contribute to the rich diversity and abundance of butterflies in Texas. The state’s size and geographical location play a major role. Stretching over 268,000 square miles from the piney woods of east Texas to the Chihuahuan Desert of west Texas, the state encompasses multiple ecosystem types. Its southern location also means generally warmer weather and a longer growing season conducive to year-round butterfly activity.

Texas also lies within the transition zone between the Nearctic and Neotropical ecozones. This allows both temperate and tropical species to thrive. Migratory butterflies use the state as a travel corridor. Some species like the American Lady and Red Admiral only reside in Texas during the winter before returning north in spring. Resident butterflies like the Gulf Fritillary live in Texas year-round.

Prominent Butterfly Families in Texas

Swallowtails

Swallowtail butterflies are large, spectacular butterflies with tails on their hindwings Texas has over 30 species, including familiar ones like the Black Swallowtail and the Eastern and Western Tiger Swallowtails. Host plants are mostly trees and shrubs

Sulphurs and Whites

Smaller butterflies in the pierid family, sulphurs and whites are mostly yellow, orange or white in color. They utilize plants in the pea and mustard families as caterpillar host plants. Common species include the Cloudless Sulphur, Orange Sulphur and Checkered White.

Brushfoots

The diverse brushfoot family includes familiar butterflies like monarchs, admirals, painted ladies and fritillaries. Most have reduced forelegs and utilize plants in the snapdragon, milkweed and passionflower families.

Skippers

Skippers have stout bodies and hooked antennae. They have a darting flight and hold their wings in a moth-like fashion when at rest. They use grasses and sedges as host plants. Species like the Silver-spotted Skipper are common across Texas.

Where to Find Butterflies in Texas

gardens

Urban gardens planted with flowering plants like lantana, pentas, and zinnias attract a wide variety of butterflies. Fruit trees, herbs, and native milkweed plants also draw them in. Move slowly and watch for sulphurs, skippers, swallowtails and more.

Parks and Preserves

State parks, nature preserves and other natural areas harbor native plants that support butterflies. Watch for species like the Little Yellow, Hackberry Emperor, and brushfoots. See monarchs on their epic migration at places like the National Butterfly Center.

Along Roadsides

Rural roads often have suitable nectar plants and host plants. Drive slowly and watch roadside flowers for sulphurs, metalmarks, and hairstreaks. Early morning and late afternoon are productive times.

Backyards

Planting native flowers, shrubs and trees that provide both nectar and host plants for larvae will attract many butterfly species to backyards. They will thank you!

Top Butterflies Species to Spot in Texas

Here are some of the most exciting and beautiful butterflies to look for across the state:

• Monarch – One of the most recognizable species, monarchs have bright orange wings with black veins and white spots. They migrate through Texas each fall and spring.

• Eastern Swallowtail – Our state butterfly! Males are bright yellow with black tiger stripes while females are darker.

• Giant Swallowtail – The largest butterfly in North America with a wingspan up to 6 inches. Look for it in east Texas.

• Pipevine Swallowtail – An iridescent blue and black beauty. Toxic as both caterpillar and adult.

• Spicebush Swallowtail – Pale yellow wings with green spots on the trailing edge of the hindwing.

• Zebra Swallowtail – Distinctive yellow and black stripes. A rare treat to find one in south Texas.

• Red Admiral – A primarily orange and black butterfly that migrates to Texas each winter.

• American Lady – Orange wings with white and blue spots. Another winter migrator.

• Painted Lady – Orange wings with intricate black and white patterns. Known for long migrations.

• Gulf Fritillary – Bright orange wings decorated with silvery spots on the underside.

• Variegated Fritillary – Orange and black wings in a checkerboard pattern.

• Great Southern White – A striking, predominately white butterfly of south Texas.

• Little Yellow – One of our smallest butterflies with wings only about one inch across.

• Lyside Sulphur – Bright yellow wings outlined in black. More lemon yellow than the Orange Sulphur.

• Sleepy Orange – Bright orange wings with distinct brown borders. Feeds on rotting fruit.

• Texan Crescent – Pale yellow hindwings with clean black crescent spots. Only found in Texas.

Butterfly Conservation in Texas

While Texas hosts vibrant butterfly communities, many species face threats from development, pesticides and invasive species. Texans can help protect butterflies by:

• Planting native host and nectar sources in gardens and landscaping
• Avoiding pesticide use
• Supporting habitat conservation
• Volunteering with conservation organizations
• Educating others about butterflies

Take time to appreciate the butterfly treasures in Texas. Their beauty and pollination services enrich our landscapes. With care and conservation, future generations can continue to enjoy their presence across the Lone Star State.