Based on 24,090 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Painted Lady is most often recorded in April; in California it behaves like a spring and fall migrant. It ranks #4 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
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Painted Lady in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in California in April
Monarch
Variable Checkerspot
Mourning Cloak
Gray Buckeye
Umber Skipper
Anise Swallowtail
Western Tiger Swallowtail
Common Ringlet
Places to look 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
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Painted Lady appear in California?
Mainly March–May, with the most records in April.
How common is Painted Lady in California?
It ranks #4 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in California (24,090 records in our sample).