Monarch

LOOK ALIKE

Monarch vs Viceroy

Viceroy

Viceroy butterflies are mimics of monarchs, meaning they pretend to be monarchs to trick predators.

If you see a black line in the shape of a “V” going across the hind wings, it’s a viceroy.

Viceroy caterpillars eat willow, and cottonwood.

LOOK ALIKE

Monarch vs black swallowtail

Monarch caterpillar

Host plants:

Milkweeds

Black swallowtail caterpillars are easily confused as monarch caterpillars.

Monarch caterpillars have stripes and black swallowtails have spots and stripes.

Another way you can tell the difference is what plant they are on.

Black swallowtail caterpillar

Host plants:

Dill, Fennel, Parsley,

Carrot, Rue,

Golden Alexsander

Monarch butterfly

Black swallowtail butterfly