Butterflies in Floridaare some of the most colourful and entrancing insect found in the Sunshine State . Thanks to Florida ’s warm mood and divers environments , the body politic hosts a wide change of butterfly species with unique patterns , colors , and behaviors . Exploringbutterflies in Floridais a tremendous way to appreciate the natural dish and rich wildlife of the neighborhood .
From the well - known Monarch to the rarefied Miami Blue , butterfly in Floridadisplay an awe-inspiring raiment of form and vibrant colors . These insects brighten gardens , parks , and wild expanse while play an important role in pollination and supporting ecosystem . Learning to identifybutterflies in Floridacan enhance your outdoor experiences and deepen your connectedness to nature .
This article introduces 45 types ofbutterflies in Florida , sodding with pic and designation details . The guide is designed to help you recognise these beautiful creatures and understand their distinctive features . Get quick to discover the incredible variety ofbutterflies in Floridaand savour the vibrant aliveness waver around you .
Different Types of Butterflies in Florida
Zebra Longwing (Heliconius charithonia)
The Zebra Longwing , Florida ’s official province butterfly , is immediately recognizable by its elongated wings mark with bold black and pallid scandalmongering stripes . This elegant butterfly stroke has a wingspread rank from 2.8 to 3.9 in and move with a slow , elegant flight of stairs . Its body is slender , and it tends to glide more than it flaps , making it one of the most classifiable butterflies in the southeastern United States .
In Florida , Zebra Longwings are common throughout the yr , especially in the southern and central regions . They are often seen fluttering in hardwood hammock , subtropical thickets , gardens , and along forest edges . These butterflies are unique for their social behavior — they often roost communally at night in small group , deliver to the same perch mean solar day after 24-hour interval .
Unlike most butterflies that feast only on nectar , the Zebra Longwing also wipe out pollen , which gives it add length of service and the power to repose more eggs over clip . The larvae provender primarily on passionflower vines ( Passifloraspecies ) , which are abundant in Florida ’s affectionate climate . Their tenacious life-time and societal habits make them riveting to both scientist and nature lovers alike .
Monarch (Danaus plexippus)
The Monarch butterfly is perhaps the most iconic butterfly stroke in North America , known for its vivid orangish wings with black veins and blank - spotted edge . With a wingspan of 3.5 to 4 inch , this mintage is both bombastic and visually striking . Males can be spot from females by the mien of black aroma gland on their hind wing .
Monarchs are illustrious for their incredible long - space migration . While most of the eastern population travel from Canada to central Mexico , a significant non - migratory population lives year - round in southern Florida , peculiarly in the Keys and coastal regions . Florida also serves as a breeding and waystation point for migrants during their journey .
This mintage depends on milkweed ( Asclepiasspp . ) as the sole host works for its larvae . Monarch caterpillars ingest the works ’s toxic compounds , which fork over them unpalatable to predators . grownup Monarchs provender on ambrosia from a all-encompassing change of bloom , making them coarse in butterfly gardens , meadows , and raw preserve throughout Florida .
Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)
The Gulf Fritillary is a vibrantorange butterfly stroke with blackspots on the upper side of its wings and smart silver-tongued place on the underside . With a wingspread of about 2.5 to 3.7 in , it is often mistaken for the Monarch but can be easily identified by its unique wing chassis and the shimmering silver markings beneath .
This specie is widely distributed throughout Florida , especially in open gay areas such as fields , gardens , roadside , and coastal home ground . It is combat-ready yr - rhythm in southerly Florida and is most abundant from late spring through evenfall in northern part of the state . The adult are degraded flier and frequently travel to lantana , zinnias , and other nectar - racy flower .
Gulf Fritillary larvae feed exclusively on passionflower vines ( Passifloraspp . ) , particularlyPassiflora incarnataandPassiflora suberosa . The caterpillar are orange with bleak spines and are harmless despite their boisterous appearance . The butterfly ’s dependency on passionflower vine makes it a common resident of Florida garden that naturalize native flora .
White Peacock (Anartia jatrophae)
The White Peacock is a medium - sized butterfly with a wingspread of 2 to 2.5 inches and typical ashen wings adorned with brown and orange figure , include two prominent eyespots on each wing . The fragile scalloped edges of its extension and soft coloration make it a best-loved among butterfly witness .
This butterfly is especially common in the wetlands and subject grassy areas of central and southern Florida . you’re able to often find it near canals , pool , drainage ditches , and marshy fields . It favor cheery , moist environment where its legion plants , such as water hyssop ( Bacopa monnieri ) and frogfruit ( Phyla nodiflora ) , are abundant .
White Peacocks exhibit a blue , quiver flight and often bask with their wings exposed . Males are territorial and can be see chasing rivals by from their opt pairing spot . Their larva are burry and dark , go in well with their host plant . The mintage is non - migrant and can be observed throughout the year in Florida ’s lovesome climate .
Viceroy (Limenitis archippus)
The Viceroy butterfly is well known for its mimicry of the Monarch , sharing exchangeable orange and black coloration , though it is broadly smaller , with a wingspan of 2.5 to 3 inches . The most reliable way to distinguish a Viceroy from a Monarch is by the presence of a blackened horizontal personal line of credit that spoil the hind annexe — a feature missing in Monarchs .
viceroy are find throughout Florida in moist environment such as Marsh , swamps , riverbanks , and lake edge . They are peculiarly prevalent in the primal and northern function of the state but can be discover statewide . grownup often rest with wings assailable and are normally seen feeding on nectar , rotting fruit , or even animal dung and carrion for mineral .
The larva of the Viceroy feed on willows ( Salixspp . ) and poplar ( Populusspp . ) , and they resemble bird dung as a anatomy of camouflage . The apery of Monarchs offer security from predators , as both species are repellant due to the chemical substance take in during their larval stage . This cunning survival tactic makes the Viceroy a textbook example of Batesian mimicry in nature .
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
The Queen butterfly stroke is a close relative of the Monarch and divvy up its elegant wing shape but boast a rich chestnut tree brown coloration with white spots near the forewings ’ tips and along the outer margins . Its wingspan typically ranges from 2.6 to 3.1 inches . The hindwings are darker and usually have fewer mark , get the queen regnant well-heeled to distinguish from its brighter full cousin .
This mintage is feel throughout Florida , specially in the southern regions and the Florida Keys . It thrive in opened , sunny habitats such as hayfield , gardens , coastal dune , and brainsick areas where milkweed and nectar plant are plentiful . Like the Monarch , the Queen is non - migratory in Florida and is seen class - round in warm conditions .
Queen butterflies lay eggs on milkweed ( Asclepiasspp . ) , which serves as the lone legion plant for their Caterpillar . The larvae , like those of Monarchs , ingest toxins from the works that make them unpalatable to predators . Males of this species are bonk for bring on pheromones from specialized aroma patches on their hind wing , used to draw females during wooing .
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus)
The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is one of Florida ’s most striking butterfly stroke , known for its brightyellow wings lined with blacktiger - like stripe and graceful backside on the hindwings . Females are dimorphous , with one pattern similar to the male person and another form that is almost whole black , probably a mimic of the toxicant Pipevine Swallowtail . wingspread can range from 3.1 to 5.5 inches , making them among the large butterfly in Florida .
This specie is commonly found across the res publica in woodland , garden , river valley , and suburban areas . It is particularly abundant in outflow and summer , though some soul can be seen yr - round in southern Florida . Adults are strong fliers and are frequently pick out feeding on nectar from a smorgasbord of efflorescence , including azalea , lilacs , and milkweed .
The caterpillars feed on a variety of host plants , including raging cherry red , sweetbay magnolia , and tulip tree diagram . In their final instars , the larvae display magnanimous middle - like spots on their thorax , which mimic a snake ’s face and help deter predators . Eastern Tiger Swallowtails pupate in a dark-brown or green chrysalis , and their presence often signals a hefty , biodiverse home ground .
Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)
The Cloudless Sulphur is a vibrant sensationalistic butterfly stroke that is well-fixed to spot due to its large size of it and brilliant gamboge - yellow-bellied colouration . With a wingspan of 2.2 to 3.1 inches , its unmarked , almost “ clean ” show distinguishes it from other sulphur . Males are more vividly lily-livered , while female person may be paler or even slightly greenish with small dark markings .
This butterfly is far-flung throughout Florida and is in particular fighting from late spring through downslope . It favour undefended spaces such as roadsides , fields , garden , and coastal area . Its strong , flying flight of steps often hold it high above the priming , though it ofttimes fall to nectar on red and orange flowers like hibiscus , lantana , and Turk ’s cap .
The larvae of the Cloudless Sulphur provender on legion plants in the pea family , peculiarly gaga senna ( Sennaspp . ) . Thecaterpillars are greenwith scandalmongering stripes and blend well with foliage . These butterfly stroke are screw for their migrant behavior , moving north in summer and retreating south in downslope , with Florida do as a key twelvemonth - one shot facts of life dry land .
Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)
The Red Admiral is a fast - flying and highly adaptable butterfly with velvety black fender strike off by bold orange - bolshie bands and white position near the peak . The striking colour convention makes it loose to distinguish in flight . Its wingspan is typically around 1.75 to 3 inches . The underside of the wing is mottle brown , declare oneself disguise when the butterfly is at relaxation .
In Florida , Red Admirals are uncouth and go on statewide throughout the class . They are most frequently seen in garden , parks , forest edge , and even urban areas . This species is known for its agility and territorial behaviour — male person often jeopardize out sunny perches and sharply furrow away interloper .
Red Admiral caterpillars provender on various coinage of nettles , includingUrtica dioicaandBoehmeria cylindrica . The grownup are highly pull in to ferment fruit and sap , and they also natter flowers for ambrosia . Their migratory behavior and adaptability make them one of the most widespread butterfly in both temperate and tropical voice of the human race .
Buckeye (Junonia coenia)
The Buckeye butterfly is a intermediate - sized species with a wingspread of 1.5 to 2.75 inches , known for its hit eyespots and bold patterning . The forewings are brown with Orange River bands and two large eyespot , while the hindwings have two additional large eyespot that serve to obscure and dissuade predators . Its coming into court is both beautiful and working in defense .
horse chestnut are commonly see throughout Florida , specially in overt , sunny sphere such as pastures , vacant lots , sandy fields , and roadside vegetation . They are present year - round in the southern part of the land and become abundant during warm months in the north . Their flight is low and erratic , often stopping to savor on bare ground or feed from dispirited - growing efflorescence .
Caterpillars feed on a variety show of server plants in the snapdragon and plantain category , includingPlantago , Ruellia , andLinaria . The larva are grim with orange markings and spine . Adult Buckeyes are nectar generalist and can be seen jaw a wide array of wildflower . Their adaptability and widespread presence make them a favorite among butterfly stroke spectator and photographers alike .
Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)
The Spicebush Swallowtail is a dark - wing butterfly with a wingspan of about 3 to 4 in . Males are mostly calamitous with greenish - blue grading on the hindwings , while females often exhibit a stronger iridescent blue . A row of light - colored spots outline the border of the wings , and the hindwings cease in graceful tails . Their apery of the poisonous Pipevine Swallowtail helps discourage marauder .
In Florida , the Spicebush Swallowtail can be found in shaded timber , gardens , and mound . Though more ordinarily seen in northern and central portion of the state , it also seem in the south during warm seasons . This butterfly often flutters down in the mouth to the footing and prefer shady paths and woodland edges , where its horde plants arise .
Its larvae feed on spicebush ( Lindera genus Benzoin ) and redbay ( Persea borbonia ) , both fellow member of the laurel family . The cat are peculiarly notable for their comical appearance , with large , false eyespots on their thorax that mimic a Snake River ’s head . This defense mechanism mechanism , along with the grownup ’s mimicry , makes the Spicebush Swallowtail a entrancing example of survival through trick .
Zebra Swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus)
The Zebra Swallowtail is a unambiguously graceful butterfly stroke marked by bold opprobrious and white zebra - similar chevron . It also have long , steel - same tails that make it instantly recognizable . The wingspan order from 2.5 to 4.1 column inch . In bound broods , the tails are shorter , while summertime individuals have farsighted tails and shining scarlet markings near the hindwings .
This species is find mainly in northerly and key Florida , particularly near moist forest and swamp where its host plant , the pawpaw ( Asiminaspp . ) , grows . It ’s less common in the southerly section of the state due to the host works ’s special compass . Zebra Swallowtails have a deadening , floating escape and often glide between perch or flowers .
Caterpillar feed exclusively on papaya tree species , which contain chemical compounds that make them unpalatable to predators . Adult butterfly nectar on a change of flowers , admit milkweed , verbena , and blueberry blossoms . Because of their reliance on a specific host plant , their presence indicates a healthy aboriginal ecosystem and is often a delight for butterfly partizan .
Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes)
The Giant Swallowtail is the largest butterfly in North America , with an impressive wingspan of 4 to 6 inches . It is predominantly calamitous with bold white-livered ring across the fore-wing and a striking yellow and blue pattern on the hindwings . The undersides are lighter and feature a rich admixture of yellow and browned . Despite its size of it , it is a elegant and quick flier .
This butterfly is vulgar throughout Florida and can be seen in garden , citrus woodlet , hammocks , and pine flatwoods . It is in particular fond of sunny , open areas and is frequently observe flitting through suburban neighborhoods . Its flight is slow and fluttering , often dip and soaring in an refined , looping design .
The GiantSwallowtail ’s caterpillarsare be intimate as “ orangish dogs ” due to their habit of feeding on citrus trees , make them familiar to many Florida gardener . The larvae resemble bird droppings , which provides fantabulous camouflage . Although sometimes considered pesterer in commercial citrus fruit surgery , these butterflies play an important role in pollenation and are a vital part of Florida ’s various louse spirit .
Cassius Blue (Leptotes cassius)
The Cassius Blue is a diminutive but charming butterfly stroke with a wingspread of just 0.75 to 1.25 inches . The upper sides of the flank are a wan blue to bluish - gray in males and duller in females , while the bottom display complex white , gray , and brown mark with classifiable middle touch on the hindwings . These normal help camouflage the butterfly stroke when at residue .
In Florida , this species is especially uncouth along the coasts and in urban gardens , but it can be incur statewide . It is particularly abundant in southerly Florida and the Keys . Cassius Blues boom in sick areas , coastal scouring , and flower beds , often fluttering low over low - growing vegetation and shrubs .
Caterpillars feed in on a variety of leguminous plants , including leadwort ( Plumbago ) , uncivilized tamarind , and beans . Adults are combat-ready year - rhythm in strong regions and can often be look in with child numbers around flowering plants . Their small size and fast , jerky flight make them a lively presence in Florida ’s butterfly stroke gardens .
Atala (Eumaeus atala)
The Atala butterfly stroke is a small , striking species known for its iridescent blasphemous - smuggled wings and vibrant red - orange venter . The hindwings are grace with metallic puritanic spots , making it one of Florida ’s most visually sensational butterfly . With a wingspan of about 1.5 to 2 inches , it compensates for its size of it with vivid , unmistakable coloration .
Once guess to be extinct in Florida due to habitat personnel casualty , the Atala has made a spectacular comeback thanks to the far-flung planting of its host flora , coontie ( Zamia integrifolia ) , a aboriginal cycad . It is now common in southeastern Florida , especially in landscaping and restoration projects that feature aboriginal flora . These butterflies are often see fluttering slowly among cosmetic planting in parks and neighborhoods .
The Atala ’s Caterpillar are bright crimson with yellow spots and provender exclusively on coontie , which hold toxic compounds . These toxins are store in the larval and adult leg , providing chemical substance defence mechanism against predatory animal . The Atala ’s revitalization highlights the importance of aboriginal plant conservation and serve as an inspiring story of urban wildlife resilience .
Gray Hairstreak (Strymon melinus)
The Gray Hairstreak is a small , sleek butterfly characterize by its smooth gray wing and slender tails on the hindwings . It feature a decided orange smear near the tail and fine smutty and white-hot line of business across the wing . The undersides are a lighter Gy with interchangeable markings . Its delicate backside and ocellus pattern help distract predators , often tricking them into attacking the shadow end instead of the straits .
This butterfly is widespread and adaptable , come up throughout Florida in both urban and raw context . It frequents garden , roadsides , meadows , and scrubby habitats , often reckon perching on low flora or feeding on flower nectar . Despite its subtle color , it is one of the most common hairstreaks in the res publica and can be observed year - rung in the warmer southerly part .
The Gray Hairstreak is a generalist when it comes to host plant , using a extensive diversity of legumes and mallows for its larvae . Adults are quick and participating , oft visiting milkweed , clover , and other nectar sources . Its widespread range and ability to adjust to disturbed environment make it one of Florida ’s most resilient butterfly stroke coinage .
Little Yellow (Eurema lisa)
The Little Yellow is a small butterfly stroke with bright yellow wings butt against in black , particularly on the forewings . It has a wingspan of around 1 to 1.5 inch and is one of the small butterflies in Florida . The underside of the wings is paler , sometimes with faint spots , providing disguise while resting among grasses and low flora .
This species is abundant in open , sunny areas such as field , roadsides , hayfield , and coastal dune throughout Florida . It is specially noticeable during the warmer months , when population peak , and it can often be seen fluttering closely to the earth in a zigzag flight pattern . It is a frequent mass in wildflower - rich home ground .
The caterpillars of the Little Yellow provender on partridge pea ( genus Chamaecrista fasciculata ) and related plants , which are common in Florida ’s open home ground . adult are alive from spring through drop and sometimes yr - round in southern parts of the state . Despite its tiny size , the Little Yellow plays an important role in pollenation and is a upbeat bearing in Florida ’s butterfly stroke community .
Great Southern White (Ascia monuste)
The Great Southern White is a intermediate - sized butterfly with bloodless wings bordered in charcoal gray or dim and a typical pale gamy or turquoise point and centre . Its wingspan range from 2 to 2.75 inches . The grim - tipped antennae are also a famed identifying feature , particularly seeable during close watching .
This species is commonly found along Florida ’s coasts , peculiarly in salt Marsh , dune , and open grassy field of battle . It thrives in warm , humid surroundings and is often seen palpitate in grouping near the shoring . Though more concentrated in southern and coastal Florida , it may seem inland during warm months or in loose , sunny areas .
The host plants for the Great Southern White let in various members of the mustard family , such as wild radish and sea rocket . The caterpillars are green and divest , meld in well with their innkeeper industrial plant . This butterfly stroke ’s elegant flight of steps and hopeful blanched wings make it a familiar sight in coastal Florida , contributing to the region ’s biodiversity .
Phaon Crescent (Phyciodes phaon)
The Phaon Crescent is a low , in an elaborate way patterned butterfly with orange and sinister wings adorned with creamy yellow and white band . Its wingspan graze from 1 to 1.5 inch . Though similar to the Pearl Crescent , it can be distinguished by the unique xanthous median stria on the forewings and the checkered pattern on the hindwings .
In Florida , this butterfly is found throughout the land in sunny , moist environments such as roadside , lawns , park , and the edges of wetland . It is especially common in the spring and summer but can be seen year - round in the southern part of the state . The Phaon Crescent is an active flyer and often feeds close to the ground on a variety of blossom .
Its primary host plant is the common frogfruit ( Phyla nodiflora ) , a low - growing aboriginal plant life often found in lawn and wetland . The availability of this industrial plant helps support levelheaded populations of Phaon Crescents . Its presence indicates healthy wetland - boundary ecosystem and well - maintained grassy habitat in suburban and instinctive areas likewise .
Dainty Sulphur (Nathalis iole)
The Dainty Sulphur is North America ’s belittled butterfly stroke , with a wingspread of just 0.75 to 1.25 inch . It has soft yellow wings with dark edging and a few small inglorious spots , and females may be slightly more heavily marked than Male . The underwings are paler and help camouflage the butterfly in its low , grassy habitat .
This bantam butterfly is wide distributed in Florida , favoring open spaces like fields , pastures , and roadside vegetation . It is especially predominant in southern and primal Florida , where it can be active nearly year - circular . Its low , erratic flight often keeps it penny-pinching to the undercoat , and it ’s usually construe singly or in minor numbers .
Dainty Sulphur caterpillars provender on plant in the aster family , particularly low - growing mintage like dogweed ( Dyssodiaspp . ) . Despite its minor size , it is a tough and resourceful metal money capable of surviving in disquieted area and convalesce quick after storms or environmental tension . Its resilience and pollyannaish presence add charm to Florida ’s butterfly stroke brute .
Julia Heliconian (Dryas iulia)
The Julia Heliconian is a prominent butterfly recognized by its long , narrow-minded wings and vibrant orangish coloration . Its wing are burnished orangish on the upper side with subtle black borders , while the bottom are duller brownish - orange for camo . With a wingspan of about 3.5 to 4 column inch , it is one of the more slender butterflies in Florida .
This butterfly is most usually ground in South Florida , specially in tropical and semitropic environs such as gardens , mound , and woodland edge . It expand in warm , humid mood and is often spot in butterfly gardens where passionflower vines — the host plants for its larvae — are cultivate . In the wild , it can be seen glide graciously , often with a dull and elegant flight of steps practice .
Julia Heliconians feed on nectar from lantana , shepherd ’s acerate leaf , and other flowering plants . The Caterpillar are bristled and feed primarily onPassifloraspecies . Adults are long - dwell compared to many other butterflies and are known for their territorial behavior , especially males that police garden edges and gay clarification . Its elegance and bright color make it a preferred among butterfly stroke partizan in South Florida .
Tropical Checkered-Skipper (Pyrgus oileus)
The Tropical Checkered - Skipper is a modest , quick - flying butterfly with typical checkered patterns on its wings . The upper side of the wing display a checkerboard of white and sullen brown , while the dead body is cover in blue - grayish scale . With a wingspread of about 1 to 1.5 inches , it is one of Florida ’s more common skippers .
This specie is rife in South Florida but can also be base throughout much of the state in open , sunny habitats . It frequents garden , pastures , roadsides , and disturbed fields . It often reside with its wing spread flat , which makes its unique wing practice easy to observe .
The larvae provender on various mallows , especiallyMalvaandSidaspecies , which grow readily in weedy or disquieted areas . grownup are fond of low - grow flowers such as shepherd ’s needle and Spanish needles . The Tropical Checkered - Skipper is active year - round in Florida and can be seen darting quickly from flower to bloom or enjoy in the sun on scurvy foliage .
Southern Dogface (Zerene cesonia)
The Southern Dogface baffle its name from the curious dog - head - shaped pattern work by the black and yellow marker on its forewings . It is a intermediate - sized butterfly , with a wingspread of about 2 to 2.75 inch . The upper wings are bright stinker - yellow frame in in black , while the undersides are wan chicken with subtle markings .
This butterfly stroke is discover in open surface area such as field , roadside , pine flatwoods , and savanna across Florida , though it is more normally encountered in the northern and central regions . It has a swift , quicksilver flight and is usually seen on fond , gay days . Though less abundant than some other sulphurs , it is a distinctive and eye - get species .
Southern Dogface caterpillars provender on various legumes , including fake Indigofera tinctoria and trefoil species . Adults are frequently appeal to flower like butterfly stroke bush and fantastic morning aureole . Its unusual wing pattern and preference for candid , sunny spaces make it a memorable metal money in Florida ’s butterfly stroke landscape painting .
Red-spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis astyanax)
The Red - spotted Purple is astunning butterfly with iridescent blueing and blackwings and subtle ruddy - Orange River spot near the edges . Despite the name , the red bit are relatively small , but the shimmering blue sheathing on the hindwings gives it a purple show . It has a wingspan of about 3 to 4 inch and is often confused with pipevine swallowtails due to mimicry .
This butterfly stroke is widely distributed across Florida and prefers wooded habitats , shaded trails , and wood edges . It is particularly common in hardwood hammocks and along streams . The Red - spotted Purple rarely impose flowers , preferring Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree sap , rotting fruit , or moist ground where it can drink nutrient .
The larvae resemble bird dung in both cast and color — a apt form of camo — and feed on a variety of trees , including cherry tree , willow tree , and poplar . adult are lone and have a elegant , glide flight . Its apery of toxic butterflies helps protect it from predators , and its presence often indicates a healthy woodland ecosystem .
Malachite (Siproeta stelenes)
The Malachite butterfly is one of the most striking species in Florida , know for its vivid linden - fleeceable and fatal design . The upper sides of the annex are bright greenish with thick black borders and veins , while the undersides are a muffled brown and pale green . With a wingspread of 3 to 4 inches , it is a big and visually telling butterfly .
malachite are typically found in tropic and semitropical constituent of South Florida , especially in hardwood hammock , tropic garden , and umbrageous woodland edge . Though not as widespread as other specie , they can be quite abundant in the right conditions and are especially common in the Miami - Dade region and the Keys .
The larvae provender on phallus of the Acanthaceae family unit , especiallyRuelliaandBlechum . Adults prefer molder fruit and tree sap over flower nectar and are often seen feeding on overripe bananas or mango in butterfly stroke garden . With its dazzle coloration and tropical dash , the Malachite is a precious stone of Florida ’s southerly butterfly brute .
American Painted Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)
The American Painted Lady is a intermediate - sized butterfly known for the two large eye smirch on the underside of its hindwings , which name it from its cheeseparing relative . Its upper wing are orange with black and white marker , creating a vibrant and striking appearance . The butterfly has a wingspan of about 1.75 to 2.5 inch , lay down it easy to blot in sunny home ground .
This mintage is widely circularize across Florida and can be notice in meadows , gardens , roadsides , and open woodlands . It is particularly warm of sunny areas with abundant flowering flora . In Florida ’s affectionate mood , it can be observed throughout the yr , with peak numbers look in spring and come down during migration and breeding periods .
The larvae of the American Painted Lady prey primarily on plants from the Aster fellowship , especially cudweed ( Gnaphalium ) , which is common in Florida . Adults savor nectar from a diverseness of blooms , including thistles and goldenrods . Their speedy and wandering flight , combined with their colorful patterns , make them a delight for butterfly stroke watchers and gardeners likewise .
Question Mark (Polygonia interrogationis)
The Question Mark butterfly stroke is easy recognized by the small silver “ question sucker ” shape on the underside of its hindwings . The upper side is orange with black patch , and the hindwings are edged in dark Robert Brown . This species has a wingspan of about 2.25 to 3 inches and is known for its angulate , leafage - like wing shape .
In Florida , the Question Mark is found in wooded areas , suburban gardens , and parks . It prefers areas with plenty of shade and nearby trees , specially elms and hackberries , which serve as host plants for its caterpillars . The butterfly stroke is seen year - cycle in Florida , but is more abundant during the cooler months when other metal money are less active .
Unlike many butterflies , the Question Mark often feeds on tree sap , molder fruit , and even fauna muck more than flower nectar . It is known for basking in sunny clearings and often flies in a slow , glide manner when upset . The camouflage cater by its underside helps it blend into dead leave when at rest .
White M Hairstreak (Parrhasius m-album)
The White M Hairstreak is a small butterfly take down for the delicate white “ M”-shaped marking on the underside of its hindwings . The upper side is a brilliant iridescent blue , especially seeable in males , while the bottom are greyish with insidious black and orange markings . Its wingspan typically drift from 1 to 1.25 inches .
This hairstreak butterfly is found across Florida in a variety of habitats , including oak tree woodlands , gardens , and suburban areas . It is most often associated with liveoak trees , where its larvae provender on the leave . The butterfly stroke is present year - round in Florida ’s lovesome climate , though it may be more unremarkably seen from spring through fall .
Adults feast on ambrosia from flowers such as dogbane , milkweed , and wild plum tree . They often perch with wings closed , indicate only the undersides , which helps them avoid predators . With its metallic news bulletin and characteristic backstage shape , the White M Hairstreak is a insidious but beautiful fellow member of Florida ’s butterfly stroke community .
Red-banded Hairstreak (Calycopis cecrops)
The Red - band Hairstreak is a tiny yet refined butterfly stroke recognise by the vivid red or orange band running diagonally across its gray hindwings . It also features small blueish spots near the tail - comparable projections on the wings , which dissemble as false antennae to distract marauder . The upper side is a consistent grayish Robert Brown , often unseen during rest .
In Florida , this hairstreak is far-flung and common in scrubland , pine flatwoods , gardens , and roadsides . It is especially drawn to foliage litter and low vegetation . Unlike many butterflies , its larvae feed not on resilient plants , but on decaying leaf affair — especially fall wax Vinca minor and sumac leave .
grownup opt nectar from low blossom close to the ground such as shepherd ’s acerate leaf and Spanish needle . With a wingspan of only 0.75 to 1.25 inches , the Red - band Hairstreak is well overlooked , but its striking coloration and tail - waggle behavior make it entrancing to observe once spotted .
Barred Yellow (Eurema daira)
The Barred Yellow is a pocket-sized , lemon - yellow butterfly that features a discrete chocolate-brown or black saloon across the fore-wing , which gives the species its name . The wings are bright yellow on top , and the undersurface is paler with subtle patterning . Its wingspan range from 1.25 to 1.75 inch , make it a goody but noticeable aviator .
This butterfly is found throughout Florida , especially in open field , coastal scrubbing , forage , and roadside . It prefers gay , disturbed expanse where its host industrial plant — members of the pea family line likeCassia — are common . It is active twelvemonth - round of golf in the United States Department of State due to Florida ’s mild winters .
Barred yellow are fast and erratic flyers , often bat low to the ground . They nectar on belittled flower and are frequently seen in mathematical group near pool or moist soil , a behavior known as puddling . Though modest , their bright coloration and energetic behavior make them an important part of Florida ’s butterfly biodiversity .
Palamedes Swallowtail (Papilio palamedes)
The Palamedes Swallowtail is a striking black swallowtail butterfly characterized by bright lily-livered topographic point and bands on its wings . Its wingspan typically ranges from 3 to 4 inches , arrive at it a medium to big - sized butterfly stroke . The yellow mark contrast sharply with the dingy backdrop , have it a bold appearance .
In Florida , this butterfly is most commonly found in swampy hardwood forests and along streams , where its main larval host plants — various species of embayment tree — are abundant . It is usually active during strong months but can be seen yr - round in southerly contribution of the state due to the mild climate .
Adult Palamedes Swallowtails provender on nectar from a variety of flowers , including azaleas , redbud , and lantanas . Their trajectory is unattackable and refined , and they often police along forest edges and shaded footpath . This coinage plays an important role in Florida ’s ecosystem as a pollinator and index number of sound wetland home ground .
Long-tailed Skipper (Urbanus proteus)
The Long - track Skipper is easily identify by its distinctively long tail extensions on the hindwings , along with a sleek , iridescent dark-green - blue body . The wing are a rich brownness with a subtle luster , and the butterfly stroke ’s fast , quicksilver flying makes it a bouncy deal in Florida ’s gardens and subject . Its wingspan valuate around 2 inches .
This skipper thrives in a variety of open habitat throughout Florida , including gardens , grazing land , and disturbed expanse . Its Caterpillar mainly fertilize on legume such as bean and peas , which makes this species common in agricultural and suburban landscapes .
adult nectar on flower like lantanas , shepherd ’s acerate leaf , and bougainvillea . They are fuck for their rapid movements and ability to dart quickly between flush , often seeming almost ungratified . The Long - tailed Skipper ’s striking tail filaments and brilliant colors make it a favorite among butterfly stroke enthusiasts .
Silver-spotted Skipper (Epargyreus clarus)
The Silver - spotted Skipper is a with child and racy brown butterfly secernate by a striking silver temporary hookup on the bottom of each hindwing . Its fore-wing are saturnine brown with orangish markings , and the wingspan ranges between 2.25 and 3.5 column inch , make it one of the large skippers in Florida .
Found throughout Florida in undecided woodland , garden , and suburban expanse , this butterfly stroke favors gay position with abundant nectar plants . Its larvae feed on various leguminous plants , including wisteria , locust tree trees , and black locust .
adult feed on nectar from flowers such as red clover , milkweed , and dogbane . The Silver - spotted Skipper exhibits a fast , direct escape and often perches with its wing part open . Its distinctive silver spot help with camouflage when resting on leaves , blending with Sunday - dappled foliage .
Dorantes Longtail (Cecropterus dorantes)
The Dorantes Longtail is a small to medium - sized butterfly stroke noted for its prospicient tail on the hindwings and easy lavender or pale purple coloring on the underside of its wings . The upper side is mostly brown with faint markings . It has a wingspread of about 1.5 to 2 column inch .
In Florida , this species is usually found in semitropic and tropical habitats such as coastal hammock , scrubland , and garden . It is more uncouth in southern parts of the state where the climate supports its favored master of ceremonies plants , which include various species of bean and leguminous plant .
adult feed on nectar from a wide of the mark variety of flowers , including lantana and shepherd ’s needle . Their escape is quick and low to the ground , often seen waver close to the leaves of host plants . The Dorantes Longtail is admired for its delicate people of colour and graceful movements .
Great Purple Hairstreak (Atlides halesus)
The Great Purple Hairstreak is one of Florida ’s most striking butterflies , boasting iridescent blue - regal upper wings contrast with black edge and bright orangish spot near the tooshie . The wingspan typically ranges from 1.75 to 2.5 inches , making it a medium - sized butterfly with vivid coloring .
This species is common in Florida ’s pine flatwoods , oak forest , and suburban gardens , especially where mistletoe — a primal host plant for its larvae — grows . The butterfly ’s larvae provender on the leaves and staunch of mistletoe , which lead to its close association with these plants .
Adults are often seen nectaring on prime such as dogbane and wildflower or resting on tree trunks . They are make love for their rapid , fluttering flight and tail assembly cause that confuse vulture . The Great Purple Hairstreak ’s vibrant colors and intriguing behaviors make it a favorite among butterfly stroke watchers in Florida .
Miami Blue (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri)
The Miami Blue is a belittled , finespun butterfly stroke lie with for its vivacious sky - blue colouration on the upper side of its wings , with greyish undersides note by vague white-hot speckle . It is one of Florida ’s rarest butterfly and is considered an endangered specie , in the first place due to habitat loss and environmental changes . The wingspan of this butterfly is about 1 to 1.25 inches , pretend it quite modest .
This species is endemic to South Florida , especially the coastal areas of the Florida Keys and Miami - Dade County . The Miami Blue choose coastal chaparral and pine rockland home ground , where its larval host plants , such as the blackbead ( Pithecellobium keyense ) , grow . alas , its special range and specialised habitat postulate make it highly vulnerable .
Behaviorally , the Miami Blue is active and quick , often flit nigh to the ground . preservation travail are on-going to protect this unique butterfly stroke , focalise on home ground saving and restitution . Its vivid spicy colouration and curio make it a wanted symbol of Florida ’s natural heritage .
Sleepy Orange (Eurema nicippe)
The Sleepy Orange butterfly is easily identified by its bright orange wings with distinctive blackened edges on the forewings , make a bold contrast . The undersurface is wan yellow to orange with subtle spots , helping it commingle into its environs when at rest . This species has a moderate wingspread of about 1.5 to 2 column inch .
In Florida , Sleepy Oranges are common in opened area such as field , roadsides , and gardens . They favour lovesome climates and are frequently seen flit humiliated over flowers and Mary Jane . Their larvae typically feed on various specie of legumes , including waste senna .
grownup feed on ambrosia from flowers like lantana , shepherd ’s needle , and tickweed . The Sleepy Orange is recognize for its rapid , humiliated flight and can be found yr - round in South Florida due to the subtropical climate . Its vivacious color and graceful flight make it a familiar and welcome sight .
Checkered White (Pontia protodice)
The CheckeredWhite butterflyis named for its distinctive black and whitened checker figure on the undersides of its wing , which resemble a chess board . The upper side is mostly white-hot with black spots and marks . It has a wingspread ranging from 1.5 to 2 in .
This coinage is widespread throughout Florida , especially in sunny open areas such as meadows , fields , and roadsides . Checkered Whites are extremely adaptable and can often be seen fluttering near their master of ceremonies plants , which include member of the mustard family like waste daikon and moolah .
Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowers , let in Pulicaria dysenterica and aster . They have a quick , fluttery flying and are most alive during warm , sunny days . Their trenchant checker figure makes them easy to identify and a favorite for butterfly watchers .
Little Metalmark (Calephelis virginiensis)
The Little Metalmark is a small butterfly stroke illustrious for the metallic luster on the undersides of its wings , which glisten with silvery spots and patch . The upper side is mostly brown with faint orangeness marking . It is a diminutive butterfly stroke , with a wingspan of about 1 column inch .
In Florida , the Little Metalmark is typically found in habitat such as opened woodlands , chaparral areas , and near wetlands . It prefer part where its host plants , usually from the helianthus family , grow . This butterfly ’s elusive colouration helps it camouflage well among leaves and bark .
Adults feed on nectar from a variety of small flowers and have a tiresome , fluttering flight . Their small sizing and shimmering underwing make them a delightful but sometimes overlooked member of Florida ’s butterfly stroke community .
Tawny Emperor (Asterocampa clyton)
The Tawny Emperor is a intermediate - sized butterfly stroke characterized by its rich brown wings adorned with intricate orange and emollient patterns , giving it a textured appearing . The wingspan typically measures between 2.25 and 3 inches . Unlike many butterfly , Tawny Emperors often prefer tree fool and rotting fruit over flowers for feeding .
This species is widespread in Florida ’s woodlands , especially near oak tree trees , which suffice as the primary emcee flora for its caterpillar . Tawny Emperors are most often found in shaded , forested areas rather than open fields or gardens .
Behaviorally , they are know for their strong , fast flight and incline to roost quiet on Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree proboscis or the priming coat . Their cryptic coloration helps them blend in into the bark , cook them less conspicuous to predators . The Tawny Emperor is a fascinating butterfly , noteworthy for its preference for non - floral food sources and forest habitat .
