Zebra Longwing

Heliconius charithonia

The Zebra Longwing or Zebra Heliconian is a species of butterfly belonging to the subfamily Heliconiinae of the Nymphalidae. It was declared the official butterfly for the state of Florida in the United States in 1996.
Zebra Longwing - Heliconius charithonia Seen at Butterflies in Bloom at Roger Williams Park Geotagged,Heliconius charithonia,Spring,United States,Zebra Longwing,butterfly

Appearance

The butterfly ranges over parts of North, Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. In North America the butterfly is found in the southern parts of the United States including Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North and South Carolina. In South and Central America, it has been recorded in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.
Zebra Longwing Butterfly, Brookside Gardens, Silver Spring, Mary The zebra longwing butterfly (*Heliconius charithonia*) is native to the Americas and is especially common in the southeastern United States, Central America, and parts of South America. It thrives in warm, humid environments like subtropical forests, gardens, and hammocks. Historically, this butterfly has fascinated naturalists for centuries due to its striking black-and-yellow striped wings and unique behaviors. It was first described in the 18th century and is notable for its unusually long lifespan compared to other butterflies—thanks to its ability to feed not just on nectar but also on pollen, which gives it extra nutrients and longevity. The zebra longwing is also Florida's official state butterfly and is admired for its slow, graceful flight and social roosting habits. Brookside Gardens,Butterfly Experience,Geotagged,Heliconius charithonia,Maryland,Montgomery County,Places,Silver Spring,Spring,United States,Wheaton Regional Park,Zebra Longwing,Zebra Longwing Butterfly

Evolution

The caterpillar feeds on Yellow Passionflower , Corky-stemmed Passionflower , and Two-flower Passionflower . The adults are unusual among butterflies in that they eat pollen as well as sip nectar. This ability contributes to their longevity—3 months as an adult. Because of their relatively long lifespan and their activity throughout the day, this is a popular species with butterfly houses. Another unusual feature is that adults roost in groups of up to 70, and return to the same roost each evening.

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