4 Fascinating Butterflies and Moths of the Grand Canyon

Spring is here, and with it comes an abundance of plant life — and butterflies and moths! The Grand Canyon is home to nearly 300 species of these fascinating insects. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most impressive species you might encounter in this beautiful place

Monarch Butterfly

The Monarch butterfly is perhaps one of the most famous and easily recognizable butterflies, both in name and appearance. Over the course of a year, four generations are born. The first three generations live only a couple of weeks, while the fourth generation survives for a few months! This unique fourth generation embarks on a massive migration, traveling incredible distances. These migrations can span from Canada all the way to central Mexico, with a crucial stop along the way: the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Canyon provides a vital stop for Monarch butterflies because it’s home to their primary food source: milkweed. Milkweed is the only plant that Monarch caterpillars feed on, and it’s also where the butterflies lay their eggs.

Two-Tailed Swallowtail Butterfly

The Two-Tailed Swallowtail Butterfly is Arizona’s state butterfly! These large butterflies have a wingspan of up to five inches. If one of their caterpillars hatches near or during winter, it will form a chrysalis and remain inside until spring. However, if the caterpillar hatches in a different season, it will only stay in its chrysalis for about two weeks (give or take a few days).

Unlike Monarchs, the Two-Tailed Swallowtail is not picky when it comes to food. These butterflies will feed on the nectar of almost any flowering plant, and their caterpillars will eat the plant they hatch on. They are commonly found near waterways, making the Grand Canyon an ideal habitat. You can catch them flying through the canyon all summer long!

Greenish Blue Butterfly

The Greenish Blue Butterfly is a small species with striking differences between males and females. The male has wings with shades of blue and grey, while the female’s wings are mostly brown and orange, with a hint of blue near their body. These butterflies have a wingspan just over an inch and tend to stay close to the ground, unlike other butterflies that fly high above the plant life. They don’t migrate and are typically seen fluttering among the low-lying plants.

Sphinx Moth

The Sphinx Moth, also known as the Hawk Moth, is a nocturnal species that is a true spectacle to behold. With a wingspan of up to five inches, these moths have a chubby, fuzzy body that makes them quite endearing. When feeding, they hover in the air, extending their long tongue into flowers in a manner similar to a hummingbird. Check out this video to see them eating!

While these moths are primarily active at night, you can still spot them in the early morning or evening. Their fascinating behavior and large size make them an unforgettable sight in the Grand Canyon.

Check out Grand Canyon National Parks pinned butterfly and moth collection here!

If you want to learn about other bugs that live in the canyon check out this blog!