Viceroy

I had never seen any Monarchs or Viceroys in this area of the Southeastern United States, in Central NC until today, when we saw a beautiful huge monarch all by himself and he looked totally exhausted and on the verge of dying, he certainly didnt look like he would have enough energy to fly all the way down to the rainforests of Mexico, which is where I understand they migrate too; for the cold winter months here in the States . Again it was really nice to see one, as up until now, had only seen Monarchs in the NE US, and had only seen yellow or blue Eastern Swallowtail butterflys and Red Spotted Purples here in NC. it was a great sight to behold, although depressing, as it looked like it was tired, and on its way out. Sandra.

We see these flying through the property, but they are difficult for me to distinguish from the monarchs when they are on the move.

The notes in "Common Butterflies & Skippers of Ohio", Ohio DNR, p.46, state that "Viceroys are smaller than monarchs and have a more rapid, less buoyant flight, holding their wings flat when gliding rather than the v-shaped glide of the monarch." And generally, that is how I can tell the difference between the two. 'CB&SO' goes on to state that viceroys can often be found near stands of willows, which serve as their hosts plants here in Ohio. We have five small willows here in our yard but I have yet to find eggs on them.

Viceroys overwinter here in the larval stage.

Often confused with Monarchs at first glance. If you would like a better chance of seeing one, put out a rotten fruit tray for them. Or leave some composted cow manure where they can find it. Sounds gross but it works.