The Small Apollo is a distinctive, semi-transparent white butterfly with red eyespots on both wings, found in arctic-alpine habitats above treeline. It is a member of the Parnassians, primitive swallowtail relatives with a papery, diaphanous wing texture. After mating, males deposit a waxy structure (sphragis) on the female to prevent re-mating — a behavior unique in butterflies.
Best time to see a Small Apollo
The best time to see a Small Apollo is June–July, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 62 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Small Apollo sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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