Judging the Age of Butterflies

White Peacock ButterflyJudging the Age of Butterflies

The White Peacock Butterfly is found in the southeastern United States through Central American and South America.  This particular specimen was photographed near Naples, Florida. Their lifespan in the wild is one to four months.  Judging by the wear and tear on the wings of this female, this is probably an older butterfly.  Tattered wings are a good indication of where a butterfly is on their lifespan.