Lots of butterflies - what are they?

[Dr. John]

Over the past three weeks I have been seeing many smallish butterflies, at least half the size of red admirals. They have been largely been in the North Toronto area - Eglinton up to York Mills, Bayview to Avenue Rd. They never seem to stop, so no chance to see many features. They appear to be sort of orange-ish or pale red-brown. Yesterday, while driving along Blythwood I saw dozens and dozens everywhere I looked. Anyone know what butterflies might be emerging now in an urban setting? I realise there may be more than one species involved here, but as of yet I can't provide more detail on wing markings.

-John

[Craig McL]

Last week will working on a film on Bayvew north of the 401 there wear lots of them flying,  I mean every wear !! ( we wear doing a snow shot and they wear flying through the shot ) once again they are moths , but I was not ever getting a good look to tell what type plus I was a long way from my net !!

Craig

[Dr. John]

Thanks Craig. I didn't get a close enough look to distinguish them being moths.

-John

[Pat Hodgson]

not 100% sure this is the same as what you were seeing, but male gypsy moths were very thick in some areas in July - they are brownish and do fly around constantly in the day as you describe

[Dr. John]

Thanks Pat. That sounds like a good possibility.

-John

[Craig McL]

Hi Johon I agree I bekeve them to be gypsy moths also ..

Craig