During October, we see more monarch butterflies in Georgia than at any other time of the year. Because monarchs have become so rare, when we spot a large orange butterfly flying about our yards, it is easy to assume we are looking at a monarch when it is actually a gulf fritillary. In fact, since gulf fritillaries are more common in our backyards at this time of the yard, the majority of the orange butterflies we see are actually gulf fritillaries. With that in mind, here are a few tips that will help you tell the difference of a gulf fritillary from a monarch.     

       The dorsal side of the gulf fritillary’s wings is bright orange and displays black spots scattered about its wings.  Three black-rimmed white spots decorate the leading edge of each forewing.  When this butterfly closes its wings, you will notice large silvery spots cover most of the underwing. 

       In comparison, the duller, orange-colored monarch is noticeably larger than the gulf fritillary.  The topside of its wings is marked with prominent black veins.  In addition, two rows of white spots are present near the tips of the wings. Its underwings display black veins set on a muted orange background.

       Another clue to the identity of the monarch is its flight pattern.  Monarchs flap their wings and they glide for a brief time; gulf fritillaries do not glide.  

       Both of these butterflies are beautiful; however, I wish that we would see as many monarchs as we do gulf fritillaries.