Zebra Longwing

aka...Zebra Heliconian, was named Florida's State Butterfly in 1996. They are abundant in our yard as we provide 'host' plants such as native passion flower vines, which are poisonous to other animals but are consumed by the Longwing's caterpillars. The 'cats' then become poisonous to their would-be predators such as birds, which are warned off by the color and patterns on the caterpillar. Our yard also provides many nectar sources such as the Golden Dew Drop in the photo. Zebra Longwings are the only butterflies known to eat pollen, which is thought to be the reason that they enjoy a 'long' lifespan. They can live up to six months, compared to other butterfly species which normally live only one month. So now you know! ;)