Species Atlas

Butterfly Families

Every species in this atlas belongs to one of 8 butterfly families. Explore a family to see its species, genera, and photo records.

Papilionidae

Swallowtails and Apollos

Swallowtails and Apollos — large butterflies, many with tailed hindwings.

Whites and yellows

Whites and yellows — familiar butterflies of meadows and gardens.

Brush-footed butterflies

Brush-footed butterflies — the largest and most varied family, including fritillaries, browns, and admirals.

Blues, coppers, and hairstreaks

Blues, coppers, and hairstreaks — small, often iridescent butterflies.

Skippers

Skippers — fast-flying, moth-like butterflies with stout bodies.

Metalmarks

Metalmarks — a small family with very few Palearctic representatives.

Snouts

Snouts — easily recognized by their elongated, snout-like mouthparts.

Milkweed butterflies

Milkweed butterflies — includes the migratory Monarch and Plain Tiger.