Danaidae
Pronunciation: [Da⋅NA·i·dae]
Common Name: Milkweed Butterflies
Description: Species in this family are referred to as the ‘milkweed butterflies’; it is also home to the famous monarch butterfly. Characteristic of this family is a short third anal vein in the front wing. Similar to other families in Lepidoptera, such as Nymphaliadae, the front leg is short and clawless. Therefore, it is not used for walking. Many of the species are bright orange with black markings along the veins of the wings. Many of the larvae feed on milkweed.
Spot ID Key Characters:
- Orange color with black markings along wing veins – especially on ventral side
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Order: Lepidoptera
