Common Butterflies of Maine
Species to look out For
Monarch Butterfly
The monarch butterfly is one of the most recognizable species in North America, known for its striking orange wings with black veins and white-spotted borders. Monarchs are famous for their long-distance migration, traveling thousands of miles between Maine and central Mexico each year. In Maine, they are commonly seen in open fields and gardens where milkweed grows—the only plant their caterpillars can eat.
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Large and eye-catching, the eastern tiger swallowtail features yellow wings with bold black stripes, resembling a tiger’s pattern. These butterflies are often spotted near rivers, woodlands, and suburban gardens. Males are frequently seen gathering in damp areas, while females lay eggs on trees such as wild cherry and birch.
Black Swallowtail
The black swallowtail is a striking species with dark wings accented by yellow spots and blue highlights. It is commonly found in open fields, gardens, and roadsides. Its caterpillars feed on plants in the carrot family, such as parsley, dill, and Queen Anne’s lace, making it a frequent visitor to herb gardens.
Mourning Cloak
Unlike many brightly colored butterflies, the mourning cloak has deep maroon wings bordered with pale yellow and dotted with blue spots. It is one of the first butterflies to appear in spring, often emerging before the snow has fully melted. This species overwinters as an adult, hiding in tree bark or woodpiles during the cold months.