Encompassing four “sub” families of butterflies (1. Danaidae, 2. Heliconiinae, 3. Libytheidae, and 4. Satridae) — the Nymphalidae family has talent. Fritillary Butterflies stand out with silver spots. The Mourning Cloak is one of few butterflies with the ability to overwinter, thanks to body chemicals that behave like antifreeze. The Viceroy and our beloved Monarch both evade predators by tasting bad.
The front legs of butterflies in the Brush-footed family are reduced in size so they walk using only their middle and hind legs. Sometimes they appear to have just four legs. Being one of the largest and most diverse families of butterflies, this family can be separated into many subfamilies. Many common butterflies are included in the Brush-foots.
ID Guide: Hesperiidae Family Side-by-Side Photo Comparison
Use the side-by-side photo comparison below to identify butterflies in the Hesperiidae Family. Click on the butterfly image to see additional butterfly photos, descriptions, and flight range map.
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