What the Experts Think

The migrating butterflies are not monarch butterflies. They are a smaller species of butterfly called the "Painted Lady." The Painted Lady butterfly does appear suddenly in the spring by the millions, especially in the west.

What were the best clues?

• The number of butterflies observed: People usually see no more than 1-2 monarchs migrating at a time in the spring, especially in California. If you had no other clues, the number of butterflies being observed in California is enough to make you suspicious.
• The size of the butterflies observed: Although we did not receive a picture of the butterflies that were migrating in California, several observers mentioned their small size. This graphic shows the actual size of each species.

Related Links

• Dr. Calvert's description of monarch migration in Texas
• What Does the California Monarch Butterfly Expert Think?
• What Does the "Painted Lady" Butterfly Expert Think?
• After the Rains, Tiny Rainbows-- The storm-fed profusion of wildflowers means a riot of painted lady butterflies
• Painted ladies by the billions invade Solano, Yolo counties
• Practice With Butterfly Identification