You can find butterflies in ornamental gardens, but visit native plant gardens or natural areas to find the greatest numbers and varieties. This time of year, many native plants are in full bloom. However, weather conditions may speed up or slow down the flowering season. Your best bet for finding flowers and the butterflies they attract is by contacting local native plant groups or calling flower hotlines which list the best locations to view native flowers at the time you call. Watching them in their natural habitat allows you to study their behaviors and actions undisturbed.
Butterflies have compound eyes which are ideal for spotting the movement of predators.
Binoculars are great for getting a close-up view without scaring the butterfly off. The best bet for finding adult butterflies is to find the plants they lay their eggs on. Caterpillars generally must feed on one type of plant so the adults will be attracted to areas where that plant grows. Purchase a butterfly field guide to learn which butterflies and plants are linked. While watching butterflies, you often find other fascinating insects, small animals and flowers.