Types of Butterflies in Tennessee | Identification Guide
Quick Facts About Butterflies
Tennessee is home to a remarkable diversity of butterfly species, with 52 different types observed throughout the state. These bright, colorful insects are not only beautiful to observe but also play important roles in pollination and serve as indicators of ecosystem health in gardens and natural areas.- Size: Varies by species (wingspan typically 1-5 inches)
- Color: Wide variety of colors and patterns including black, white, orange, blue, and yellow
- Shape: Two pairs of large wings with distinctive patterns and markings
- Active Season: Primarily spring through fall (most active during warm months)
- Lifespan: Complete metamorphosis with 4 stages (egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, adult)
- Reproduction Rate: Females lay eggs on specific host plants required by their caterpillars
What Do Butterflies Look Like?
Butterflies are characterized by their large, colorful wings covered in microscopic scales that create their distinctive patterns. Unlike moths, butterflies typically have club-shaped antennae, are active during daylight hours, and rest with their wings held upright. Tennessee’s butterfly species showcase a remarkable diversity of sizes, colors, and wing shapes, from the striped pattern of the state butterfly to the orange and black markings of monarchs.Key Identifying Features
- Large, scaly wings that are often brightly colored
- Club-shaped antennae (unlike moths’ feathery antennae)
- Slender bodies compared to moths
- Day-flying behavior rather than nocturnal activity
- Wings typically held upright when at rest
Notable Tennessee Butterfly Species
Zebra Swallowtail
- Tennessee’s official state butterfly
- Distinctive black and white striped pattern on wings
- Long tails trailing behind on each hindwing
- Caterpillars feed exclusively on pawpaw trees
- Two to three broods per year in Tennessee
Monarch
- Large orange and black butterfly with white spots along wing edges
- Undertakes remarkable long-distance migration
- Caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed plants
- Population has declined significantly in recent decades
- Important pollinator for wildflowers
Other Common Tennessee Butterflies
- American Copper: Small with orange and brown coloration
- American Lady: Medium-sized with complex pattern including eyespots
- Baltimore Checkerspot: Black with distinctive orange and white checkered pattern
- Dreamy Duskywing: Brown with subtle markings and rapid flight
- Common Wood-Nymph: Medium-sized with distinctive eyespots on brownish wings
Where to Find Butterflies in Tennessee
Different butterfly species can be found in various habitats throughout Tennessee. Look for zebra swallowtails near pawpaw trees in moist woodlands and along streams. Monarchs are often seen in open areas with milkweed plants. Other species frequent meadows, gardens, forest edges, and wetlands. Many butterflies are attracted to flower gardens, especially those featuring native plant species that provide nectar for adults and host plants for caterpillars.
When to Consider Professional Advice
While butterflies are generally beneficial and rarely require control, you might seek professional guidance when:- You need help identifying specific butterfly or caterpillar species
- Caterpillar feeding is causing significant damage to valuable plants
- You want to create a butterfly-friendly garden but aren’t sure how to start
- You need to balance butterfly conservation with protecting certain plants
- You’re experiencing unusually high populations of caterpillars
