Monarch vs. Queen: Can You Tell The Difference?

One of the many joys of water gardening is all the cool critters that visit. Included in that mix are gorgeous butterflies. You can enhance this visitation with appropriate plantings, like Aquatic Butterfly Bush or Milkweed.

We have so many in our front yard sometimes that it would be considered an infestation if they weren't so pretty! The neighborhood kids are all fascinated by our butterfly bush in our front yard stream. Check it out:

Caterpillar Identification

Can you tell the difference between Monarch and Queen caterpillars? They look the same unless you know what to look for. Test your skill below:

Butterfly Identification

Can you tell the difference between the Monarch and Queen butterflies? The Queen butterfly has white spots on its hindwings, distinguishing it from the Monarch. It is also a darker color orange than monarchs. When the wings of a queen butterfly are open, it's a bit easier to tell the two species apart, not to mention if they happen to be sitting side by side. They're not usually that cooperative, though.

So now you know how to tell the difference. Can you count how many of each you see in your yard each day? They certainly don't sit still for long! 

If you're not seeing any, then you might need to add the right plants and organic water that they need to be attracted to your yard. ​

For more great information on these butterflies, visit: ​http://www.arizonensis.org/sonoran/fieldguide/arthropoda/danaus.html.

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FROGS IN A PHOENIX POND
PONDS, BIRDS & BUTTERFLIES
WILDLIFE AROUND A PHOENIX POND
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