Dispatch From the Butterfly Ranch

Meet Limenitis archippus – the Viceroy butterfly.   

Much smaller than a monarch the viceroy is also characterized by a narrow, curved black line crossing the middle of the hind wings.   In flight the viceroy glides with its wings held in a horizontal position - monarchs glide with wings held at an angle.   

This critter enjoys a couple of interesting defenses.  In the larval stage the caterpillar bears a striking resemblance to bird poop - camouflaging it from predators. The butterfly bears a close resemblance to a monarch and as a consequence birds who have previously attempted dining-upon the poisonous monarch will avoid the viceroy. On the other hand birds that have not had that negative experience will readily eat viceroys.  

This butterfly will propagate two generations in this part of North America and inhabits wetter habitats that contain its preferred food – poplar and willow.  These viceroys were part of a large group feasting on the nectar of Jill’s herbs in the kitchen garden.

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