Atala Butterfly
Eumaeus atala
The Atala Butterfly is a small South Florida native whose recovery is closely tied to the return of coontie in landscapes.
The Atala Butterfly is a small South Florida native whose recovery is closely tied to the return of coontie in landscapes.
Adults are black with iridescent blue spots, a bright red-orange abdomen, and a red patch on the hindwing. Caterpillars are red-orange with yellow spots.
Adults remain near coontie colonies, fly low through gardens, and lay clusters of eggs on new host growth. Several generations occur during warm weather.
Adults and caterpillars do not sting. Do not eat coontie or allow pets to chew it because the plant contains toxic compounds.
Do not collect wildlife from protected lands without authorization. Follow property rules and protect occupied host plants from pesticide drift.
Habitat:
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Residential Areas
Area / Range:
South Florida, Florida Keys
Diet:
Adults drink nectar from small flowers. Caterpillars feed primarily on the leaves of native coontie.
Behavior:
Adults remain near coontie colonies, fly low through gardens, and lay clusters of eggs on new host growth. Several generations occur during warm weather.
Daytime
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Sunny warm days around coontie plantings and nectar-rich South Florida gardens
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Florida conservation concern
Safety Level:
Safe to Observe
Safety Information:
Adults and caterpillars do not sting. Do not eat coontie or allow pets to chew it because the plant contains toxic compounds.
Benefits to Property:
Pollinates flowers and turns native coontie plantings into valuable habitat for a distinctive South Florida butterfly.
Property Concerns:
Caterpillars may temporarily defoliate coontie. Healthy established plants usually recover. Avoid insecticides near host plants.
Fun Fact:
The Atala was once believed gone from Florida but returned as homeowners and landscapers planted more native coontie.
Wildlife Laws:
Do not collect wildlife from protected lands without authorization. Follow property rules and protect occupied host plants from pesticide drift.
Identification:
Adults are black with iridescent blue spots, a bright red-orange abdomen, and a red patch on the hindwing. Caterpillars are red-orange with yellow spots.