A butterfly s wings, as well as its entire body, are covered by thousands of delicate scales. These scales give the butterfly color and pattern. Each wing is made by two very thin sheets pressed together to protect a system of veins. These veins help regulate body temperature, keep the wing in the correct flight position and helps in identifying the butterfly. Butterfly eggs are very small and are usually found on the underside of a lush, green leaf.
Butterflies are exteremely careful about where they lay their eggs.
The female must first make sure the plant is edible for her kind, otherwise the caterpillars will not eat and eventually will die. Many butterflies are native to Michigan. Some are found only in certain areas, while others are found all over the state. Try looking up these in a butterfly field guide, you may even find more from your yard.