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Viceroy Butterfly
Viceroy Butterfly Coloration and Size
The Viceroy butterfly (Limenitis archippus) is nearly identical to the Monarch butterfly. It has orange-brown wings with dark black veins. A black line across the hind wing distinguishes it from the Monarch.
Its wingspan is in the 2.6" - 3.0" range.
Distribution and Habitat
It can be found over a wide geographical area, from southern Canada to central Mexico.
Host Plants Used by the Viceroy Butterfly
Host plants include cottonwoods, willows, aspen, cherry, apple, and plum.
Viceroy Butterfly Life Cycle Stages and Times
| Stage | Typical Duration |
| Egg stage | 4 to 9 days |
| Caterpillar (larval) stage | 3 to 4 weeks |
| Chrysalis (pupal) stage | 7 to 14 days (except for overwintering pupae) |
| Adult butterfly stage | 6 to 14 days |
Photos of Viceroy Butterflies
Viceroy Butterfly |
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Viceroy Butterfly (dorsal view) |
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Viceroy Butterfly (ventral view) |
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Similar to the Viceroy ... the Monarch Butterfly
Side-by-side comparison of Monarch Butterfly Look-Alikes: Queen, Viceroy and Soldier
Shown below is a spotting guide to butterflies that are similar in coloration and markings to the Monarch. Included are the Viceroy, Queen and Soldier ... the "Royal Court of Butterflies" !
