Gulf Fritillary
Dione vanillae
The metallic silver wing spots look reflective in sunlight.
The metallic silver wing spots look reflective in sunlight. Keep passionvine and nectar plants free from broad-spectrum insecticides.
Habitat:
Gardens, Fields, Roadsides, Woodland Edges
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Adults drink nectar. Caterpillars eat passionvine.
Behavior:
Fast active flyer that lays eggs on passionvine. Orange caterpillars carry soft dark spines.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Look during day in suitable Florida habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Common native butterfly
Safety Level:
Harmless
Safety Information:
Keep passionvine and nectar plants free from broad-spectrum insecticides.
Benefits to Property:
Pollinates flowers and uses passionvine as a host plant.
Property Concerns:
Caterpillars strip leaves from passionvine, which usually recovers.
Fun Fact:
The metallic silver wing spots look reflective in sunlight.
Wildlife Laws:
Keep passionvine and nectar plants free from broad-spectrum insecticides.
Identification:
Bright orange wings with black markings above and large silver spots underneath.
Credits:
Facts: wildlife reference. Images: primary image and secondary image, Wikimedia Commons.