WOW, we found a butterfly (click on the video to watch). Now, we need to answer one of the oldest questions - what kind is it? This is where identification is used. Note that many people confuse the terms classification and identification. The former is done by scientists who name new species. They compare many related specimens and decide which represent a given species. In some cases, they assemble enough information to conclude they have a new species (to science). The scientist then must publish their work in a peer reviewed journal and provide sufficient evidence why they suspect this is a new species. They can also provide a name for that species.

 

We won't be doing this. It is unlikely we will find a new species of butterfly in Illinois. Instead, we will need to compare the actual specimen with descriptions and photos. We will identify the butterfly. Once we know the name, we can learn about the biology, distribution and other aspects of the species.

 

Examine these pages (based on type of habitat) to gain a better appreciation of the most commonly encountered butterflies.

 

Prairie

 

Forest

 

Garden