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Bandelier National Monument
Butterflies (and Moths)
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| NPS Photo by Sally King | | Mourning cloaks can be seen flying on warm days as early as mid-February. |
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Over 100 species of butterflies have been identified with Bandelier. Some, like the Mourning Cloak and California Tortoiseshell, can be seen flying on warm days in late winter and early spring. These butterflies overwinter as adults tucked neatly under loose bark, awakening on warm days to seek sustenance. Early spring-flying butterflies usually feed on tree sap, rotting vegetation, and early blooming flowers.
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| NPS Photo by Sally King | | During the right season and in the right place, butterflies can congregate in large numbers. |
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The majority of butterflies are active only in the summer because they feed on the pollen of flowering plants. These include several species of Tiger Swallowtails, Fritillaries, Hairstreaks, and Admirals. Some are large with wingspans of up to 4.5" while others are tiny and often overlooked. Some of these tiniest butterflies display the most vivid colors of blue, green, and orange.
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| NPS Photo by Sally King |
| Although quite small, Juniper Hairstreaks exhibit vivid color. |
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Identify Local Butterflies
Photos and Descriptions
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Did You Know?
Most rattlesnakes bites are "dry" bites in which little or no venom is produced. That doesn't mean you want to get bit. Keep your distance if you encounter a rattlesnake while hiking.
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Last Updated: December 16, 2007 at 14:50 EST |
