Types of Butterflies in Hawaii
Hawaii has only two native butterfly species, including Blackburn’s blue (Udara blackburni) and Kamehameha butterfly (Vanessa tameamea). Others are found very seldom or are migratory. These butterflies mainly occur in all habitats from sea level to alpine deserts. They feed on native plants, decaying wood of particular plants, algae, lichens, and fungi.
The Kamehameha butterfly (Vanessa tameamea) has been the state butterfly of Hawaii since 2009.
Brush-Footed (Nymphalidae)
- Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)
- Kamehameha Butterfly (Vanessa tameamea)
- American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)
- Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)
- Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanilla)
- California Tortoiseshell (Nymphalis californica)
- Monarch (Danaus plexippus)
Gossamer-Winged (Lycaenidae)
- Amyntor Greenstreak (Cyanophrys amyntor)
- Long-winged Greenstreak (Cyanophrys longula)
- Western Pygmy-Blue (Brephidium exilis)
- Gram Blue (Euchrysops cnejus)
- Pea Blue (Lampides boeticus)
- Lantana Scrub-Hairstreak (Strymon bazochii)
- Lantana Hairstreak (Tmolus echion)
- Lesser Grass Blue (Zizina otis)
- Hawaiian Blue (Udara blackburnii)
Whites and Sulphurs (Pieridae)
- Clouded Yellows (Colias ponteni)
- Sleepy Orange (Eurema nicippe)
- Cabbage White (Pieris rapae)
- Large Orange Sulphur (Phoebis agarithe)
Swallowtail (Papilionidae)
- Chinese Yellow Swallowtail (Papilio xuthus)
Skipper (Hesperiidae)
- Fiery Skipper (Hylephila phyleus)
- Banana Skipper (Erionota thrax)
- Sandhill Skipper or Saltgrass Skipper (Polites sabuleti)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many native butterfly species are in Hawaii?
Hawaii has only two native butterfly species. These endemic species are the Kamehameha butterfly (Vanessa tameamea) and the Blackburn’s blue butterfly (Udara blackburni). All other butterfly species found on the islands, such as the Monarch or Cabbage White, are introduced and not native to the archipelago.
What is the official state butterfly of Hawaii?
The official state butterfly of Hawaii is the Kamehameha butterfly (Vanessa tameamea). It was designated as the state insect in 2009 to recognize its cultural and ecological significance as one of only two butterfly species that are native to the Hawaiian islands, where it is known as pulelehua.
What do native Hawaiian butterflies eat?
Native Hawaiian butterflies primarily feed on endemic plants and their nectar. Their diet is quite specialized and can also include decaying wood from certain plants, algae, lichens, and various fungi. This reliance on native flora makes them sensitive to habitat changes and the introduction of invasive plant species.
Are Monarch butterflies native to Hawaii?
No, Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) are not native to Hawaii. Although they are a common sight, they are an introduced species that has successfully established a population on the islands. The only two butterflies considered truly native are the Kamehameha and the Blackburn’s blue, which evolved there.
Where do butterflies live in the Hawaiian islands?
Butterflies in the Hawaiian islands inhabit a wide variety of environments. They can be found in nearly all habitats, ranging from coastal areas at sea level all the way up to high-altitude alpine deserts. This adaptability allows them to thrive across the diverse ecosystems present on the islands.
Can you find Swallowtail butterflies in Hawaii?
Yes, you can find Swallowtail butterflies in Hawaii, but they are not native species. The Chinese Yellow Swallowtail (Papilio xuthus) is an introduced species from the Papilionidae family that has established a presence. No Swallowtail species are endemic to the Hawaiian archipelago’s unique ecosystem.
What types of Brush-Footed butterflies are found in Hawaii?
Hawaii is home to several types of Brush-Footed butterflies (Nymphalidae), most of which are non-native. Besides the native Kamehameha butterfly, common introduced species include the Monarch, Painted Lady, American Lady, Red Admiral, and the Gulf Fritillary. These are frequently seen in gardens and wild areas.
