Zebra Longwing

Zebra Longwing
Photo by Jaret Daniels

Species

Species:

Heliconius charithonia

Family:

Nymphalidae

Subfamily:

Heliconiinae

Size

Medium

Host Plants

Where Found

Habitat

  • Woodlands, hammocks, forest margins, and adjacent open areas
  • Gardens, parks, neighborhoods

This species has been reported in these Florida counties:

Throughout Florida

Flight Period

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Description

Our state butterfly, the Zebra Longwing is the only butterfly in Florida that feeds on pollen in addition to nectar. The adults may survive for several months and are frequent visitors to gardens adjacent to more wooded areas. The flowers of Lantana, verbena, firebush and heliotrope are particular favorites. | Photos by Jaret Daniels

UF IFAS Ext FFL