Leonard Weber

August 1, 2024

If we were to name an “Eliza Howell Park Butterfly of the Year” for 2024, the winner would be one that:

a) is being seen frequently in the park this year;

b) is attractive or striking enough in appearance that it catches our attention and invites a photograph. 

The following 8 are worthy of consideration for the hypothetical award (the listed order is not intended to suggest likelihood to win).

1. Red Admiral

Red Admiral was unusually numerous this spring and has continued to be seen throughout the summer. This has definitely been a year for Eliza Howell nature walkers to get to know this species.

2. Common Buckeye.

Common Buckeye is usually a late  summer uncommon presence in the park. This year, it arrived earlier and is being seen more frequently. It isn’t always easy to catch a good view of this fascinating insect, but its more frequent presence makes it considerably easier in 2024.

3. Silver-spotted Skipper.

Silver-spotted Skipper is perhaps the smallest butterfly on this list (but the largest skipper in the park). It is perennially common here and is seen during nearly every walk among the wildflowers.

4. Monarch.

Probably the best known of all butterflies in Michigan, the Monarch is frequently seen in Eliza Howell Park. This year is not significantly different from past years; it remains common and popular.

5. Question Mark.

Question Mark makes the list because of its increased numbers. It is not abundant but there seems to be a notable increase this year; the likelihood of seeing this species is considerably better than in previous years.

6. Hackberry Emperor

More often found on the paths than on flowers, Hachberry Emperor is another species that is much more common than usual this year. It is one of the few butterflies that will alight on us, the butterfly watchers.

7. Viceroy.

This year is a continuation of the last several years. Viceroy has become a regular presence in the park, so much so that butterfly watchers look twice, no longer just assuming that the orange and black butterfly is a Monarch.

8. Eatern Tiger Swallowtail.

This is the largest of the butterflies on the list and one of the most common. Because of its size and numbers, one is often able to spot a Tiger Swallowtail by looking out over a wildflower field. And, because it is a dedicated nectarer, it is also relatively easy to get close to one for a photo while it is sucking on a flower.

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One can generally expect to see the same butterflies in Eliza Howell Park year after year. Occasionally, something different shows up (always a highlight).

Almost as fascinating as finding different species is recognizing the way the presence of common species varies from one year to the next.

Perhaps by the time August is over, the Butterfly of the Year list will be narrowed to 2 or 3 (I doubt we will be able to select just one).