Butterfly flight seasons in California from 586,994 research-grade iNaturalist observations. June has the most activity.
By month
California butterfly calendar (top 40)
Fewer More observations (relative to each row's peak month)
Activity by month (all species)
Most-photographed butterflies in California
Monarch
Gray Buckeye
Fiery Skipper
Painted Lady
Gulf Fritillary
Small White
Anise Swallowtail
Variable Checkerspot
Mourning Cloak
Western Tiger Swallowtail
Umber Skipper
Gray Hairstreak
Acmon Blue
California Sister
Marine Blue
Lorquin's Admiral
Where to photograph butterflies in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
Botanical GardenSeaWorld San Diego
Botanical GardenLos Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
State ParkPrairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Botanical GardenSanta Barbara Botanic Garden