Heliconius charithonia
WINGSPAN 7 to 10cm (2¾ to 4in)
HABITAT Forest settings, subtropical areas, thickets, gardens
DISTRIBUTION Southern portions of the United States southward through Mexico, Central America and the West Indies to South America
LIFESPAN Several months
MALES AND FEMALES Similar in colour and markings
The state butterfly of Florida since 1996, the Zebra Longwing is a striking creature. Medium-sized, it has elongated wings and a vivid striped pattern. It tends to roost in groups of around 50 adults and has developed a pecking order with the oldest getting the best roosting spots. Although not easily startled, it does make an eerie creaking sound if disturbed, by wriggling its entire body. The Zebra Longwing follows a set foraging route to its favourite food plants – Shepherd’s Needle and Lantana – and it eats pollen as well as nectar.