How Well Do You Know Butterfly Species?

Three butterflies cluster in a warm golden-hour garden: a razor-sharp orange-and-black monarch perched on milkweed, a deep-blue morpho resting on a dew-speckled tropical leaf, and a yellow-and-black swallowtail sipping nectar from a bright yellow flower with its proboscis extended. Shallow depth of field with backlit rim light and creamy bokeh highlights wing scales, veins, fine hairs and water droplets.

Introduction

Ready to test your butterfly IQ? This quiz asks 10 identification and natural-history questions so you can see whether you spot the easy field marks or the tiny clues only seasoned watchers notice.

About the Quiz

I created this quiz for anyone who loves the fluttering, jeweled moments in the garden. Expect a mix of common species (monarch, painted lady, cabbage white) and trickier ones (viceroy vs. monarch, glasswing, hairstreak). Each question includes a short explanation so you’ll learn one neat fact even when you miss an answer.

If you want to read more while you study, I wrote about the spiritual symbolism of dark-winged species in The Spiritual Meaning of Black Butterflies, and about why butterflies matter in Why Are Butterflies Important?. For tips on helping them in your yard see How to Help Butterflies.

Instructions

  1. Choose the best answer for each species question.
  2. There are 10 questions total — aim for 70% or higher to pass.
  3. Explanations appear after each answer so you learn as you go.

Good luck — and keep your eyes on the milkweed and asters. Butterflies love both.