Arizona is home to 334 butterfly species, second only to Texas.  In the Verde Valley, we

now have the possibility to see half of those species, due to our varied habitats

throughout the region.  That number continues to grow; in 2023 alone, two new

species were added to the list!  Becky will share the Verde Valley butterfly families you

can expect to observe, including their distinguishing characteristics; as well as some of

the best locations to find their species.  She will also share the difference between

butterfly host and nectar plants and how you can attract butterflies to your garden.

Becky Hardy Bio 

Becky Hardy is a lifelong butterfly enthusiast.  She has had a lifelong passion,

interaction and observation of butterflies. Over the years, Becky has observed,

researched and reared thousands of butterflies across multiple species.

She has presented to multiple organizations about butterflies.  She shares her

enthusiasm and passion for butterflies by facilitating butterfly field trips and events, as

Northern Arizona Audubon Society’s education chair.  She has participated in several

North American Butterfly Association (NABA) butterfly counts over the years; most

recently as sector leader for the Dead Horse Ranch State Park sector. In 2023, she

observed a butterfly species that had not been seen in the Verde Valley before.