Does Iowa need a state butterfly, and should it be the regal fritillary?

That's a policy question fluttering in the 2015 Iowa Legislature. Resolutions have been introduced in the House and Senate to declare the rich reddish-orange and black insect as the official butterfly of the state of Iowa.

Iowa is one of only four states without a state butterfly or a state insect. Supporters of the regal fritillary (Speyeria idalia) say it's one of North America's most striking butterflies, with a wingspan that can exceed 4 inches. It's found statewide, which means many Iowans can see it flying in summer and early fall in native prairie habitats.

Read more here:  

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politi...

William Petroski, bpetrosk@dmreg.com

Resolutions have been introduced in the House and Senate to declare the regal fritillary, a rich reddish-orange and black insect, as the official butterfly of the state of Iowa.(Photo: University of Connecticut)