Zebra Longwing Butterfly
Heliconius charithonia
Adults digest pollen, gaining protein that supports an unusually long butterfly lifespan.
Adults digest pollen, gaining protein that supports an unusually long butterfly lifespan. Protect passionvine and nectar plants. Avoid insecticides on host plants and roost sites.
Habitat:
Hammocks, Gardens, Woodland Edges
Area / Range:
Statewide, Most Common in Peninsular Florida
Diet:
Adults drink flower nectar and collect pollen. Caterpillars eat native passionvine.
Behavior:
Slow graceful flight. Adults often roost together on twigs at night.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Look during day in suitable Florida habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Florida state butterfly
Safety Level:
Harmless
Safety Information:
Protect passionvine and nectar plants. Avoid insecticides on host plants and roost sites.
Benefits to Property:
Pollinates flowers and supports native food webs.
Property Concerns:
Caterpillars chew passionvine, their natural host plant.
Fun Fact:
Adults digest pollen, gaining protein that supports an unusually long butterfly lifespan.
Wildlife Laws:
Protect passionvine and nectar plants. Avoid insecticides on host plants and roost sites.
Identification:
Long narrow black wings crossed by pale yellow stripes.
Credits:
Facts: wildlife reference. Images: primary image and secondary image, Wikimedia Commons.