SKIPPER BUTTERFLY IDENTIFICATION HOW TO

In addition, Washington’s Yakima Canyon, the Okanagan Highlands, meadows in the Olympic mountains are all good locales. Those interested can visit the canyons up and down the east side of the Cascade Mountains, Pyle says. Although butterflies do live in forests, observers see them less often there than in big open fields.Įastern Washington is a larger hub for the creatures. And as summer falls, more and more come to life, lasting for months and tapering out into the fall. In May, more are available to see, including those known as swallowtails. Another that emerges around the same time is the ghost-like Margined White butterfly. One of the first butterflies that observers can see in spring is the lavender-blue Echo Azure, which often comes out in April in big numbers at the edges of woodlands (like various parks in Seattle). Photo by Randimal/AdobeStock Sun Seekersīutterflies like sunshine, not the wet, cold days of January or February.

Beginning in April, observers can see them flapping their large wings in local gardens or spots around the Pacific Northwest. About 90% of the region’s butterflies live in the area and 10% migrate to the Northwest from places like California.Īlthough some butterflies, like the dark-colored Mourning Cloak, live year-round, they can only really be observed in the warm months. Butterflies, which do exist year-round, mostly flourish in the warm months. But here’s where you might be wondering: Where are Pacific Northwest butterflies, exactly? Allow us to be your guide.Īccording to Pacific Northwest butterfly expert, Robert Michael Pyle, who has written several books on the subject, including “Chasing Monarchs: Migrating with the Butterflies of Passage” and “Mariposa Road: The First Butterfly Big Year,” there are common, uncommon and even extremely rare butterflies in the Northwest. At peak times, there are upwards of millions in the area. From Washington to northern Idaho, Oregon and Vancouver B.C., the region is flush with the fluttering, often brilliantly colored winged creatures.

SKIPPER BUTTERFLY IDENTIFICATION HOW TO

Where, When and How to Spot Pacific Northwest Butterfliesĭid you know that the Pacific Northwest is home to nearly 200 different species of butterflies? That’s right.

Skipper butterfly identification