Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

Arctic Skipper (Carterocephalus palaemon)

This Actic Skipper is found in northern climates in late May and throughout June. It is marked like a miniature fritillary. The topside is heavily checkered orange on a dark brown background. It favors moist, grassy areas in or near oak-pine transitional forests. Getting a good photo of this small butterfly is very tricky, as with most small skippers.

Indian Skipper (Hesperia sassacus)

This late spring butterfly is an Indian Skipper. It has an indistict chevron pattern similar to Long Dash Skipper. This is also a northern species. Photo shown is 2-3 times normal size.

Black Swallowtail - female (Papilio polyxenes)

The Black Swallowtail is quite common in Ontario. It has 2-3 broods, and is active from May to September, with the peak in mid July. This is a rather showy butterfly, often found close to the ground near slopes and clifts and has adapted well to suburban and urban environments. I have seen them nectaring on thistle, but they are fond of parsley and dill as well.

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