Newfoundland Birds

With its limited range of habitats, this area is not particularly rich in butterfly species. Cool temperatures, occasional extensive fog, limited sunshine and a small variety of host plants are key factors. The recently published Butterflies of Ontario contains all the 23 species found here with the exception of the local specialty, the Short-tailed Swallowtail, a species very similar to the Black Swallowtail (which is not found here).

Despite the lack of variety, from mid-June into October numerous boreal and bog species flutter across the barrens and along the trails. In woodland areas Spring Azures are common. Less common are Milbert’s Tortoiseshell, Green Comma and Mourning Cloak. In grasslands and forest edges Canadian Tiger Swallowtail, Atlantis Fritillary, Northern Crescent and Common Ringlet are most often encountered. In open tundra look for Pink-edged Sulphur, and in bogs the Bog Copper.

Red Admirals are sometimes found in extraordinary numbers – we have counted hundreds along a single trail - and most years American and Painted Ladies and Monarchs are also recorded. The Monarch’s host plant, Common Milkweed, does not grow in the province, but they are occasionally found along roads to headlands such as Powell’s Head Road, along the Cape Race Road, and at wind-tossed Cape Race.

For details on species that have been recorded, their abundance status, and flying periods please see the Butterfly Flying Chart.