Viceroy (Limenitis archippus)

Description: A medium sized orange and black butterfly. The upperside is dark orange with bold black veins and white-spotted black margins. The underside is similarly patterned, with lighter grey on the hindwing and the forewing apex. The Viceroy is a Monarch mimic. It can be told from the Monarch by its smaller size, the transverse black band on the hindwing, and the single row of white spots along the wing margin. Wingspan: 53 to 81 mm.

Maritime Distribution: Widespread throughout the Maritimes. For Atlas results click here.

Provincial Ranks: NB: S5. NS: S5. PEI: S4.

Flight Period: Double brooded. Early June to early August, August to early October.

Host Plant: Various willows (Salix spp.) and poplars (Populus spp.).

Notes: The Viceroy is found in a variety of open habitats but usually near marshy areas where small willows grow. It can be frequently seen feeding on damp earth, sunning on small willows and visiting flowers.