30 Butterfly Species in Florida

Florida is home to an abundance of butterfly species, with more than 200 varieties found within the state’s borders. From the breathtaking Zebra Swallowtail to the diminutive and delicate Dainty Sulphur, Florida’s butterfly diversity is truly stunning.

In this article, we will focus on 30 stunning butterfly species that can be found in Florida, exploring their unique features and habitats.

Whether you’re a seasoned butterfly enthusiast or simply interested in learning more about the beautiful creatures that call Florida home, this article is sure to offer something new and exciting.

Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus)

The Zebra Swallowtail is a striking butterfly species endemic to Florida and other southeastern states.

• Habitat: You can find the Zebra Swallowtail in a variety of habitats, but they are most commonly found in damp woodlands, marshes, and swamps.
• Appearance: The most striking feature of the Zebra Swallowtail is its bold black and white striped wings. The wingspan of this butterfly ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Size: The Zebra Swallowtail has a medium-sized body with long, slender wings.
• Diet: The Zebra Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including dogbane, milkweeds, and tick trefoil.
• Reproduction: The female Zebra Swallowtail lays its eggs on pawpaw trees or Wafer Ash trees. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Zebra Swallowtail is around two weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Zebra Swallowtail are pawpaw trees and Wafer Ash trees.

The Zebra Swallowtail is a sight to behold, with its bold black and white stripes and distinctive, elongated wings.

While their lifespan is short, they are one of the most recognizable and beloved butterfly species in Florida.

If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these beauties in the wild, take a moment to appreciate their unique beauty.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus)

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is a large and colorful butterfly species found in Florida.

• Habitat: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, fields, and residential gardens.
• Appearance: The male Eastern Tiger Swallowtail has yellow wings with black tiger stripes, while the female has yellow or black wings with blue and orange spots. Their wingspan ranges from 3.5 to 6 inches.
• Size: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail has a large body with wide, powerful wings.
• Diet: The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweed, lilac, and phlox.
• Reproduction: The female Eastern Tiger Swallowtail lays its eggs on the leaves of a variety of trees, including birch, cherry, and ash. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is around one month.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail are tulip poplar, black cherry, and sweetbay magnolia.

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is one of the most striking butterfly species found in Florida, with its bold tiger stripes and colorful spots.

Their wide wings and powerful bodies make them a stunning sight in flight, and their varied habitat preferences make them a common sight across the state.

If you’re lucky enough to spot an Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, take time to appreciate its unique beauty.

Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)

The Spicebush Swallowtail is a stunning butterfly species native to Florida,

• Habitat: The Spicebush Swallowtail can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and wetlands.
• Appearance: The Spicebush Swallowtail has black wings with blue-green markings and a series of orange spots along the edge of its wings. Their wingspan ranges from 3 to 4 inches.
• Size: The Spicebush Swallowtail has a medium-sized body with broad wings.
• Diet: The Spicebush Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, phlox, and lilac.
• Reproduction: The female Spicebush Swallowtail lays its eggs on the leaves of spicebush or sassafras trees. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Spicebush Swallowtail is around two weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Spicebush Swallowtail are spicebush and sassafras trees.

The Spicebush Swallowtail is a true gem in the butterfly world, with its unique blue-green markings and orange spots.

While they are a relatively common sight in Florida, their striking appearance always manages to impress.

If you’re looking to add a touch of color to your butterfly garden, consider planting some spicebush or sassafras trees to attract these beautiful creatures.

Palamedes Swallowtail (Papilio palamedes)

The Palamedes Swallowtail is a striking butterfly species commonly found in Florida.

• Habitat: The Palamedes Swallowtail can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and along coastal areas.
• Appearance: The Palamedes Swallowtail has black wings with prominent yellow spots and bands of yellow on the underside of its wings. Their wingspan ranges from 3 to 5 inches.
• Size: The Palamedes Swallowtail has a large body with broad, powerful wings.
• Diet: The Palamedes Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including common milkweed, purple loosestrife, and pickerelweed.
• Reproduction: The female Palamedes Swallowtail lays its eggs on the leaves of red bay or silk bay trees. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Palamedes Swallowtail is around two weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Palamedes Swallowtail are red bay and silk bay trees.

The Palamedes Swallowtail is a true beauty, with its contrasting black and yellow markings and broad powerful wings.

While they are a relatively common sight in Florida, their striking appearance always manages to impress.

If you’re looking to attract these butterflies to your garden, consider planting some red or silk bay trees to act as host plants.

Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)

The Giant Swallowtail is a beautiful butterfly species found throughout much of Florida.

• Habitat: The Giant Swallowtail can be found in a variety of habitats, including swamps, woodlands, and fields.
• Appearance: The Giant Swallowtail has distinctive black wings with yellow markings and yellow spots on the edge of its wings. Their wingspan ranges from 4 to 6 inches.
• Size: The Giant Swallowtail has a large body with broad, powerful wings.
• Diet: The Giant Swallowtail feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including azalea, swamp milkweed, and black cherry.
• Reproduction: The female Giant Swallowtail lays its eggs on the leaves of citrus trees such as lemon or orange trees. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Giant Swallowtail is around two weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants for the Giant Swallowtail are citrus trees such as lemon or orange trees.

The Giant Swallowtail is aptly named for its large size, striking appearance, and powerful wings.

Their distinctive yellow markings make them a popular sight in butterfly gardens throughout Florida.

If you’re looking to attract these stunning butterflies to your garden, consider planting some citrus trees to act as host plants.

Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

The Monarch Butterfly is one of the most well-known butterfly species found in Florida, and indeed, across the world.

• Habitat: The Monarch Butterfly can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and residential gardens.
• Appearance: The Monarch Butterfly has bright orange wings with black veins and white spots on the edge of its wings. Their wingspan ranges from 3.5 to 4 inches.
• Size: The Monarch Butterfly has a medium-sized body with broad, powerful wings.
• Diet: The Monarch Butterfly feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, goldenrods, and zinnias.
• Reproduction: The female Monarch Butterfly lays its eggs on the leaves of milkweed plants. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Monarch Butterfly is around one month.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for the Monarch Butterfly is milkweed.

The stunning Monarch Butterfly is a true icon in the butterfly world, with its bold orange coloration and striking wing pattern.

Their status as a flagship species has helped to raise awareness of butterfly conservation efforts across the world.

If you’re looking to attract these butterflies to your garden, consider planting some milkweed to act as host plants.

Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippus)

The Queen Butterfly is a stunning butterfly species commonly found in Florida.

• Habitat: The Queen Butterfly can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and residential gardens.
• Appearance: The Queen Butterfly has bright orange wings with black veins and distinctive white spots on the edge of its wings. Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Size: The Queen Butterfly has a medium-sized body with broad, powerful wings.
• Diet: The Queen Butterfly feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including milkweeds, lantanas, and goldenrods.
• Reproduction: The female Queen Butterfly lays its eggs on the leaves of milkweed plants. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Queen Butterfly is around one month.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for the Queen Butterfly is milkweed.

The Queen Butterfly is a true beauty, with its bright orange coloration and distinctive wing pattern.

While their striking appearance is similar to that of the Monarch Butterfly, the Queen Butterfly is a distinct species with its own unique characteristics.

If you’re looking to attract these butterflies to your garden, consider planting some milkweed along with some of their other preferred nectar sources.

Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)

The Gulf Fritillary is a bright and colorful butterfly species found throughout much of Florida.

• Habitat: The Gulf Fritillary can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and residential gardens.
• Appearance: The Gulf Fritillary has bright orange wings with black markings and white spots on the edge of its wings. Their wingspan ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Size: The Gulf Fritillary has a medium-sized body with broad, powerful wings.
• Diet: The Gulf Fritillary feeds on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including passionflower, Lantana, and Ironweed.
• Reproduction: The female Gulf Fritillary lays its eggs on the leaves of passionflower plants. The eggs hatch within a week, and the caterpillars feed on the leaves of the host plant.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of the Gulf Fritillary is around two weeks.
• Host Plants: The primary host plant for the Gulf Fritillary is passionflower.

The Gulf Fritillary is a true beauty, with its bright orange coloration and delicate wing markings.

They are commonly found in butterfly gardens across Florida, and are a popular sight for their bold colors and friendly demeanors.

If you’re looking to attract these butterflies to your garden, consider planting some passionflower along with some of their other preferred nectar sources.

Julia Butterfly (Dryas iulia)

Julia butterflies, also known as fiery-tipped or Julia Heliconian, are common throughout Florida.

• Habitat: Julia Butterfly primarily inhabits the tropical and subtropical forests of the Americas, ranging from Brazil to Texas and Florida.
• Appearance: The Julia butterfly is known for its striking orange wings with black borders and a white patch on the top of the front wings. They also have long, thin antennae and a large body compared to its wingspan.
• Size: These butterflies have a wingspan of 3-4 inches.
• Diet: Julia butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, primarily those with red or purple flowers.
• Reproduction: Female Julia butterflies lay their eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Julia butterfly is approximately two to four weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars of this butterfly feed on members of the pea family, including the velvetbean, among others.

They have a fondness for sunny, woodland edges and are mostly active between dawn and mid-afternoon.

They are territorial and will stake out an area, flying from perch to perch, and defending their areas against intruders.

These insects are not considered to be endangered, but habitat destruction and pesticide use pose a significant threat to their populations.

White Peacock (Anartia jatrophae)

White Peacock butterflies can be found throughout Florida, flying from March through to November.

• Habitat: The White Peacock is a common sight in disturbed areas, open fields, and along roadsides and gardens in Florida.
• Appearance: The White Peacock butterfly is easily distinguishable with its white wings and brown-black markings, which resemble eyes.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of about 3 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: White Peacock butterflies feed on the nectar of various flowers, including milkweed, thistle, and asters.
• Reproduction: Female White Peacock butterflies lay their eggs singularly on the undersides of leaves or stems.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a White Peacock butterfly is two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on the leaves of plants such as Spanish needles, shrubby false buttonweed, and various species of vervain.

They are very active during the day, which makes them a favorite with butterfly enthusiasts.

Moreover, they are not migratory and can be seen all year round in Florida. Predators of these butterflies include birds such as the Northern mockingbird and the American crow.

While habitat fragmentation does pose a threat to them, the White Peacock butterfly is not considered to be endangered.

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

Painted Lady butterflies are known for their extensive migration patterns, which take them across North America and even into Europe and Asia.

• Habitat: Painted Lady butterflies are migratory and can be found in various open habitats across North America.
• Appearance: The Painted Lady butterfly is easily identifiable with its wings of orange, brown, black, white, and blue. They have a distinct pattern of circular eyespots on their wings.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of 2 to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Painted Lady butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of plants, including thistle, aster, and ironweed.
• Reproduction: Female Painted Lady butterflies lay their eggs singularly on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Painted Lady butterfly is two to four weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on thistle, hollyhock, and various species of verbena.

In Florida, they are usually seen during their spring migration, which takes place from late February through to June.

These butterflies have also been known to migrate south in the fall. They tend to be more common in open, windy areas along the coast.

While they are not considered endangered, habitat destruction and pesticide use are potential threats to their populations.

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

Red Admiral butterflies can be spotted in Florida throughout the year, with the highest numbers seen during their spring and fall migrations.

• Habitat: Red Admiral butterflies can be found in a wide range of habitats, from gardens to woodlands and fields, across North America and Europe.
• Appearance: The Red Admiral butterfly is a distinctive and beautiful species, with black wings marked with red, white, and blue bands and spots.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of 2 to 3 inches.
• Diet: Red Admiral butterflies feed on the nectar of a wide range of flowers, including asters, milkweeds, and butterfly bushes.
• Reproduction: Female Red Admiral butterflies lay their eggs singularly on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Red Admiral butterfly is two to four weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on various plants, including nettle, hop, and false nettle.

They tend to prefer sunny areas, including gardens, open fields, and woodland edges.

Interestingly, the Red Admiral butterfly has been observed flying during the night, using the moon and stars to navigate. This behavior is relatively unusual for butterflies.

While they are not considered to be endangered, habitat loss and pesticide use have impacted their populations.

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)

American Lady butterflies can be found in Florida year-round, with the highest numbers seen in the spring and fall.

• Habitat: American Lady butterflies can be found in a range of open habitats, including fields, meadows, and roadsides across North America.
• Appearance: The American Lady butterfly is easily distinguishable with its vibrant orange wings marked with black and white spots and bands.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of 2 to 2.75 inches.
• Diet: American Lady butterflies feed on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including thistle, sunflower, and aster.
• Reproduction: Female American Lady butterflies lay their eggs singly on the undersides of host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Lady butterfly is two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on the leaves of various plants, including members of the sunflower family, including thistle and asters.

These butterflies prefer sunny, open areas and have been spotted along the coasts, in gardens, and on roadsides.

They are known to sunbathe in groups, opening their wings to absorb the sun’s warmth.

While they are not considered threatened, habitat loss and pesticide use are potential threats to their populations.

In addition, climate change may impact their migration patterns and distribution.

Florida White (Appias drusilla)

Florida White butterflies can be found in Florida year-round, with the highest numbers seen in the spring and summer.

• Habitat: Florida White butterflies can be found in a range of open habitats, including fields, pastures, and roadsides across North and Central America.
• Appearance: The Florida White butterfly is easily recognizable with its small wings measuring only about 1.5 inches across, and white in color with black markings on its wings.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of about 1.5 inches.
• Diet: Florida White butterflies feed on the nectar of a variety of flowers, including members of the mustard family.
• Reproduction: Female Florida White butterflies lay their eggs singly on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Florida White butterfly is approximately two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The caterpillar of this butterfly feeds on various members of the mustard family, including cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.

These butterflies are commonly found in open, sunny areas such as fields, pastures, and along the roadsides.

They are relatively slow flyers and are known to be wary of predators such as birds. While they are not considered to be endangered, habitat loss and pesticide use are potential threats to their populations.

Therefore, planting a variety of flowering plants that they like in your yard can help sustain the population of Florida White butterflies.

Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)

Cloudless Sulphur butterflies are common in Florida and can be seen throughout the year, although they are more abundant during the summer months.

• Habitat: Cloudless Sulphur butterflies can be found in a range of open habitats, including fields, gardens, and along the roadsides across the Americas.
• Appearance: Cloudless Sulphur butterflies have bright yellow wings without any markings or spots, and their bodies are covered with fine, black hairs.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of about 3 inches.
• Diet: Cloudless Sulphur butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including members of the pea family such as cassia and clover.
• Reproduction: Female Cloudless Sulphur butterflies lay their eggs singularly on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Cloudless Sulphur butterfly is approximately two to four weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on the leaves of several species of cassia.

They are very active during the day and prefer sunny areas such as fields, roadsides, and gardens.

Cloudless Sulphurs are also known for their tendency to form large migratory swarms, especially in the southern US states.

While they are not considered to be endangered, habitat loss and pesticide use are potential threats to their populations.

Therefore, planting flowering plants that they prefer in your yard or garden can help support the Cloudless Sulphur butterfly populations in your area.

Orange-barred Sulphur (Phoebis philea)

Orange-barred Sulphur butterflies are common in Florida, and can be spotted all year round, but are more abundant during summer and fall.

• Habitat: Orange-barred Sulphur butterflies can be found in a range of habitats from fields, to gardens, to forests, across Central and South America as well as in Florida.
• Appearance: The Orange-barred Sulphur butterfly has bright yellow wings with distinctive orange bars on top and bottom, and its undersides are gray-white with black and orange markings.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of about 3 inches.
• Diet: Orange-barred Sulphur butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including members of the pea, thistle and wildflowers families.
• Reproduction: Female Orange-barred Sulphur butterflies lay their eggs singly on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of an Orange-barred Sulphur butterfly is approximately two to three weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on the leaves of various plants such as cassia, and members of the pea family.

They tend to fly low to the ground, which makes them easily recognizable. They prefer sunny areas like fields, roadsides, and gardens, and are known for their quick movements, often darting and zigzagging as they fly.

While they are not considered to be endangered, habitat loss and pesticide use are potential threats to their populations.

Therefore, planting a variety of flowering plants preferred by this butterfly in your garden can help support their populations in your area.

Great Southern White (Ascia monuste)

Great Southern White butterflies are common in Florida and can be seen all year round.

• Habitat: Great Southern White butterflies can be found in open habitats including fields, meadows, and marshes across the southeastern United States, including Florida.
• Appearance: The Great Southern White butterfly has white-colored wings with black tips and veins, and its body is mostly white with some yellow coloring.
• Size: They usually have a wingspan of about 2.5 to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: Great Southern White butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including members of the aster and milkweed families.
• Reproduction: Female Great Southern White butterflies lay their eggs singly on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Great Southern White butterfly is approximately one to two weeks.
• Host Plants: The larva of this butterfly feeds on the leaves of various plants, including members of the mustard and cabbage families.

Their abundance is higher during the summer months. They are known to be attracted to moving objects and will often follow cars or other vehicles in search of salt, minerals, and moisture.

These butterflies prefer sunny areas such as fields, meadows, and marshes. While they are not considered to be endangered, habitat loss and pesticide use are potential threats to their populations.

Therefore, it is essential to preserve their habitat and planting flowering plants preferred by this butterfly can help support their populations.

Southern Skipperling (Copaeodes minima)

The Southern Skipperling is a small, dark brown butterfly with white spots and orange highlights on the undersides of the hindwings.

• Habitat: Open, dry areas with low vegetation such as fields, roadsides, and prairies.
• Appearance: Dark brown wings with white spots and orange highlights on the undersides of the hindwings.
• Size: Wingspan of 3/4 to 1 inch.
• Diet: Nectar from a variety of flowers including blue sage, black-eyed Susan, and goldenrod.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on leaves or stems of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: Approximately one month as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Legumes such as clover, beans, and alfalfa.

They can be found in open, dry areas with low vegetation such as fields, roadsides, and prairies. These butterflies have a wingspan of only 3/4 to 1 inch, making them one of the smallest species in Florida.

The Southern Skipperling feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, including blue sage, black-eyed Susan, and goldenrod.

Females lay their eggs on the leaves or stems of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves. Host plants for Southern Skipperlings include legumes such as clover, beans, and alfalfa.

These butterflies have a relatively short lifespan of approximately one month as an adult butterfly. Despite their small size, the Southern Skipperling is an important pollinator in Florida’s ecosystems.

Zebra Longwing (Heliconius charithonia)

The Zebra Longwing is easily recognizable with its black and white striped wings, yellow highlights, and long, narrow wings.

• Habitat: Woodlands, hammocks, gardens, and parks.
• Appearance: Black and white striped wings with yellow highlights and long, narrow wings.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, including passionflower, which the larvae also feed on.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves of passionflower plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to six months as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Passionflower plants.

They can be found in woodlands, hammocks, gardens, and parks throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 3.5 inches, they are one of the larger species in the region.

These butterflies feed on nectar from various flowers, including passionflower, which is also the host plant for their larvae.

Females lay their eggs on the leaves of passionflower plants and the caterpillars hatch and feed on the leaves. Once they mature into adults, they continue to feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.

The Zebra Longwing has a relatively long lifespan for a butterfly, with individuals living up to six months as an adult butterfly.

They are important pollinators and their passionflower larvae are a food source for other animals in the ecosystem.

Atala (Eumaeus atala)

The Atala is a unique butterfly species with dark metallic blue and red wings adorned with white spots.

• Habitat: Coastal areas with coontie plants.
• Appearance: Dark metallic blue and red wings with white spots.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 2 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, toxic to predators.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on coontie plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to two weeks as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Coontie plants.

They are found exclusively in coastal areas with coontie plants – the only host plant for their larvae in Florida. With a wingspan of up to 2 inches, they are relatively small compared to other butterfly species in the region.

Atalas feed on a variety of nectar-producing flowers, but the coontie plant is their primary host plant for reproduction.

Females lay their eggs on the leaves of coontie plants, which hatch into caterpillars that exclusively feed on the plant’s leaves. The Atala butterfly is toxic to predators, which have learned to avoid them due to their unpalatable taste.

Despite their unique appearance and importance as pollinators, the Atala has a relatively short lifespan of up to two weeks as an adult butterfly.

Conservation efforts have been focused on preserving their host plant, as the destruction of coontie plants has threatened the butterfly’s survival in certain areas.

Polydamas Swallowtail (Battus polydamas)

The Polydamas Swallowtail is a large, impressive butterfly with black wings adorned with yellow spots and blue-green highlights.

• Habitat: Woodlands, gardens, and open areas.
• Appearance: Black wings with yellow spots and blue-green highlights.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 4 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers and plant sap.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, such as rue or prickly ash, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to six months as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Rue or prickly ash.

They can be found in woodlands, gardens, and open areas throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 4 inches, they are one of the larger butterfly species in the region.

These butterflies feed on nectar from various flowers and also consume plant sap for nutrients.

The females lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, such as rue or prickly ash, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves. Once they mature into adults, they continue to feed on nectar and plant sap in the ecosystem.

The Polydamas Swallowtail has a relatively long lifespan for a butterfly, with individuals living up to six months as an adult butterfly.

Their longevity has allowed them to be prolific pollinators in the region. Additionally, the host plants Rue and Prickly Ash have medicinal properties and are used in herbal medicine.

Clouded Skipper (Lerema accius)

The Clouded Skipper is a small butterfly species with brown wings adorned with white spots and lighter colored edges.

• Habitat: Open grassy areas and roadsides.
• Appearance: Brown wings with white spots and lighter colored edges.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 1.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, such as Spanish Needle and Black-eyed Susan.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to two weeks as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Grasses, including Bermuda grass and wiregrass.

They can be found in open grassy areas and roadsides throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 1.5 inches, they are one of the smaller butterfly species in the region.

These butterflies feed on a variety of nectar-producing flowers, such as Spanish Needle and Black-eyed Susan.

Females lay their eggs on grasses, including Bermuda grass and wiregrass, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.

Due to their relatively short lifespan of up to two weeks as an adult butterfly, Clouded Skippers are not major pollinators in the ecosystem.

However, they are important as a prey species for birds and other predators. Additionally, their larvae play a role in controlling the growth of some grass species.

Cassius Blue (Leptotes cassius)

The Cassius Blue is a small butterfly species with light blue wings adorned with dark borders and white spots.

• Habitat: Open areas including fields, meadows, and gardens.
• Appearance: Light blue wings with dark borders and white spots.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 1 inch.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, including Spanish Needle and Mimosa.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the buds or flowers of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the plant.
• Lifespan: Up to two weeks as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Legumes, including alfalfa and clover.

They can be found in open areas including fields, meadows, and gardens throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 1 inch, they are one of the smaller butterfly species in the region.

These butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including Spanish Needle and Mimosa.

Females lay their eggs on the buds or flowers of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the plant. Host plants for Cassius Blues include legumes, including alfalfa and clover.

Due to their relatively short lifespan of up to two weeks as an adult butterfly, Cassius Blues are not major pollinators in the ecosystem.

However, they are important as a prey species for birds and other predators. Additionally, their larvae play a role in controlling the growth of some plant species.

Florida Purplewing (Eunica tatila)

The Florida Purplewing is a beautiful butterfly species with dark wings adorned with blue and purple highlights.

• Habitat: Open areas including fields, roadsides, and parks.
• Appearance: Dark wings with blue and purple highlights.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 2.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, including Brazilian Pepper and Goldenrod.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to six months as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Passionflower plants.

They can be found in open areas including fields, roadsides, and parks throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 2.5 inches, they are one of the larger butterfly species in the region.

These butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowers, including Brazilian Pepper and Goldenrod.

Females lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, namely passionflower plants. The caterpillars hatch from the eggs and feed on the leaves of the host plant.

The Florida Purplewing has a relatively long lifespan for a butterfly, with males living up to two months and females living up to six months as an adult butterfly.

They are important pollinators in the ecosystem and their host plant, passionflower, also plays an important role in the region’s ecosystem.

Passionflower plants are used in traditional herbal medicine, and the fruit is an important source of food for various species of birds and mammals.

Ruddy Daggerwing (Marpesia petreus)

The Ruddy Daggerwing is a striking butterfly species with reddish-brown wings adorned with white spots and long, narrow tails.

• Habitat: Woodlands, swamps, and gardens.
• Appearance: Reddish-brown wings with white spots and long, narrow tails.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 3.5 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, including Spanish Needle and Lantana.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to four weeks as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Palms, including Saw Palmetto and Cabbage Palm.

They can be found in woodlands, swamps, and gardens throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 3.5 inches, they are one of the larger butterfly species in the region.

These butterflies feed on nectar from various flowers, including Spanish Needle and Lantana.

Females lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, mainly Palms such as Saw Palmetto and Cabbage Palm. The caterpillars hatch from the eggs and feed on the leaves of the host plants.

The Ruddy Daggerwing has a lifespan of up to four weeks as an adult butterfly.

Their host plants are important in the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for various birds and animals. Additionally, Saw Palmetto extract is used in herbal medicine to help improve urinary and prostate health.

Malachite (Siproeta stelenes)

The Malachite is a beautiful butterfly species with green and black wings adorned with white spots and edges.

• Habitat: Woodlands, gardens, and open areas.
• Appearance: Green and black wings with white spots and edges.
• Size: Wingspan of up to 4 inches.
• Diet: Nectar from various flowers, including Lantana and Mexican Sunflowers.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves.
• Lifespan: Up to six months as an adult butterfly.
• Host Plants: Various plants, including nettles and members of the Acanthaceae family.

They can be found in woodlands, gardens, and open areas throughout Florida. With a wingspan of up to 4 inches, they are one of the larger butterfly species in the region.

These butterflies feed on nectar from various flowers, including Lantana and Mexican Sunflowers.

Females lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, which hatch into caterpillars that feed on the leaves. Host plants for Malachites include various plants such as nettles and members of the Acanthaceae family.

The Malachite has a relatively long lifespan for a butterfly, with individuals living up to six months as an adult butterfly.

They are important pollinators in the ecosystem and their larvae play an important role in controlling the growth of some plant species.

Additionally, some of their host plants are used in traditional herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments.

Mangrove Skipper (Phocides pigmalion)

The Mangrove Skipper is a common butterfly species in Florida.

• Habitat: The Mangrove Skipper lives in salt marshes, mangrove swamps, and other wetlands along Florida’s coast.
• Appearance: This species has a distinctive brown and white coloring, with a white stripe on its wings.
• Size: The Mangrove Skipper is small, with a wingspan of only 1-1.5 inches.
• Diet: The larvae of this species feed on the leaves of black mangrove trees, while the adults feed on the flowers of various plants.
• Reproduction: The female Mangrove Skipper lays eggs on black mangrove leaves, and the larvae hatch and feed on the leaves until they pupate and emerge as adults.
• Lifespan: The Mangrove Skipper has a relatively short lifespan of only a few weeks.
• Host Plants: This species is closely associated with black mangrove trees, which are the main host plants for the larvae.

The Mangrove Skipper is an important part of Florida’s diverse ecosystem, and a fascinating creature to study and observe.

Viceroy (Limenitis archippus)

The Viceroy is another common butterfly species found in Florida.

• Habitat: The Viceroy can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and meadows.
• Appearance: This species has orange wings with black veins, and a black band across the bottom of the hindwings.
• Size: The Viceroy has a wingspan of 2.5-3.5 inches, making it one of the larger butterfly species in Florida.
• Diet: The larvae of this species feed on the leaves of willow trees, while the adults feed on the nectar of flowers.
• Reproduction: The female Viceroy lays eggs on the leaves or bark of willow trees, and the larvae hatch and feed on the leaves until they pupate and emerge as adults.
• Lifespan: The Viceroy has a lifespan of several weeks to several months, depending on environmental factors.
• Mimicry: The Viceroy is known for its mimicry of the Monarch butterfly, which is toxic to predators. This mimicry allows the Viceroy to avoid being eaten by predators that have learned to avoid the Monarch.

The Viceroy is a fascinating butterfly species found throughout Florida’s varied habitats.

Its mimicry of the Monarch butterfly is a remarkable adaptation that helps it to survive and thrive in the wild.

Dainty Sulphur (Nathalis iole)

The Dainty Sulphur is a small and delicate butterfly species that can be found throughout Florida.

• Habitat: The Dainty Sulphur lives in a wide variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, gardens, and open areas near water.
• Appearance: This species has bright yellow wings with black borders, with males having a distinct black spot on the forewing.
• Size: The Dainty Sulphur has a small wingspan of only 1-1.5 inches.
• Diet: The larvae of this species feed on the leaves of various plants, while the adults feed on the nectar of flowers.
• Reproduction: The female Dainty Sulphur lays eggs on the leaves of host plants, and the larvae hatch and feed on the leaves until they pupate and emerge as adults.
• Lifespan: The Dainty Sulphur has a relatively short lifespan of only a few weeks.
• Host Plants: This species has several host plants, including clover, alfalfa, and various legumes.

Despite its small size, the Dainty Sulphur is an important pollinator and an essential part of Florida’s ecosystem.

Its bright yellow coloring makes it easy to spot, and watching these delicate creatures flit from flower to flower can be a delight for nature enthusiasts.

Miami Blue (Cyclargus thomasi)

The Miami Blue is a rare and endangered butterfly species that is found only in Florida.

• Habitat: The Miami Blue can be found in coastal areas of southern Florida, including Keys and the Miami area.
• Appearance: This species has bright blue wings with a white fringe, and a small black spot at the base of the forewing.
• Size: The Miami Blue has a wingspan of only 0.75-1 inch, making it one of the smallest butterfly species in Florida.
• Diet: The larvae of this species feed on the flowers and buds of several plant species, including blackbead and gray nickerbean.
• Reproduction: The female Miami Blue lays eggs on the flowers or buds of the host plants, and the larvae hatch and feed on the plant material until they pupate and emerge as adults.
• Lifespan: The Miami Blue has a lifespan of only a few days to a week.
• Conservation: The Miami Blue is critically endangered due to habitat loss, and conservation efforts are underway to protect the remaining populations.

Despite its small size, the Miami Blue is an important part of Florida’s ecosystem, and its stunning blue coloration makes it a breathtaking sight to behold.

With ongoing efforts to protect this rare species, we can hope to see it continue to grace Florida’s coastal regions for generations to come.

Conclusion

Florida is home to a diverse range of butterfly species, each with their own unique characteristics and habitats.

From the large and striking Polydamas Swallowtail to the small and elusive Miami Blue, there is much to discover and appreciate about these beautiful insects.

Have you seen any of these butterfly species in Florida? Leave a comment below to share your experiences.