The Viceroy butterfly (Limenitis archippus hoffmanni) is a striking species that closely mimics the Monarch butterfly in appearance. It has bright orange wings with black veins, bordered by black bands adorned with white spots. A key feature distinguishing the Viceroy from the Monarch is a horizontal black line crossing the hind wings.
This butterfly is found across North America, from southern Canada through the United States and into northern Mexico. It favours wetland habitats, including marshes and the edges of lakes and rivers.
The name “Viceroy” refers to its role as a mimic of the "Monarch," borrowing the regal title to signify its resemblance. This mimicry serves as a defense mechanism, as predators avoid it thinking it's as toxic as the Monarch.
A fascinating curiosity is that while the Monarch's toxicity comes from milkweed, the Viceroy gains its own bitter taste from willow leaves, its primary host plant.
We firmly support sustainable tropical butterfly collections as long as they protect the rainforest where they fly and develop responsible, conscious trading.
This allows us to support local ranching farms with ethically sourced material and help at the same time collectors and enthusiasts to contribute to understanding and treasuring those species.
Please take into consideration that the specimen that you will receive may slightly differ in size, shape or colour from the picture shown as you are purchasing a natural product.
All our items are carefully delivered to prevent damages on transport, papered items are packaged in glassine envelopes specifying capture/breeding data and location available. CITES certificate will be provided in the specimens required.
HOW WE GRADE OUR LISTINGS (SPECIMENS)
As Insect specimens are natural products, some are bred and some others caught in wild, the quality can vary greatly.
The guide below explains the grading used for specimens in our listings.
A1 No visible imperfections, both antennas, no tearing, scratches or missing part of the wings (or as perfect as you could expect from wild caught specimens), with exception of some leg damage.
A1- Very minor damage, normally restricted to antenna damage or antennae attached separately in the envelope.
A- These specimens have minor damage, such as antenna damage, or minor flight wear such as small scratches, minor sale damage, some minor fraying/chipping around the edges of the wings.
A2 More significant damage, such as major flight wear, small rips, small pieces missing from the wings, damage to the thorax or abdomen.
B or Second Grade These specimens have similar damage to A2 specimens, but to a more significant degree. Usually used as parts replacement or art work material
| SPECIMEN | |
|---|---|
| Country | Mexico |
| Locality | Sian Ka'an, Quintana Roo |
| Collection type | Wild collected |
| Bio-zone | Neotropical |
We supply both rare and common species from all parts of the world.
• Entomology • Photography • Research • Trade • Home decor •
United States, United Kingdom and Mexico
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