White Admiral

Limenitis arthemis arthemis

This a basically a dark butterfly with wide white bands through each wing, which makes it a very unique looking butterfly and one of the easiest butterflies to identify. This subspecies is mainly a northern butterfly, while the Red-spotted Purple is a southern species. Nevertheless, the White Admiral has been found as far south as Illinois. It is fairly common in central Wisconsin, but I was amazed to find it in abundance in Douglas County, far greater than I expected, with easily over one hundred seen in a single day. Most of these were seen getting nutrients on dung.

Identifying characteristics

Above, the White Admiral is black with wide, white stripes through the middle of both wings, red and blue submarginal spots, and a few white spots near the apex. Below, this butterfly is very similar to the upper surface, with the wide white band through the center of both wings being the most easily seen characteristic.

Similar species

None in Wisconsin.

Habitat

Forest edges and openings, and roadsides and trails through wooded areas.

Flight

Two broods. Late May through July and then late July into August.

Abundance

In the northern counties this species may become very common, and I have observed more than 100 of this subspecies in a single day.

Locations