Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Zebra Heliconian

Zebra Heliconian
Zebra Heliconians, or Zebra Longwings, are tropical brushfoot butterflies. They are found in warm climates and they are the state butterfly of Florida. The larval host plants are different types of passion vines. The adult butterfly lives longer then most species, up to about 6 months. This may have something to do with living in a warmer climate but it is also possible that their diet may have some effect on their longevity. Zebra longwings do not feed on nectar like most butterflies instead they eat the pollen from the flowers that they visit. This butterfly was photographed at the Cork Screw Swamp Sanctuary in Florida.

8 comments:

Richard Lawry said...

Beautiful butterfly


An Arkies Musings


Carver said...

Fantastic shot of the butterfly and perfect for Z. Carver, ABC Wed. Team

Leslie: said...

AmaZing!

Leslie
abcw team

Roger Owen Green said...

definitely zebraic!

Wanda said...

Well move over Mr. Zebra... I'm taking center stage in this one.

Perfect Z ~~ What a beautifu butterfly...reminds me of a Piano Tape I listen too called "Black and White"

carol l mckenna said...

Wow! Impressive ~ beautiful! for 'Z'

(A Creative Harbor) aka ArtMuseDog and Carol ^_^

Anonymous said...

I remember seeing lots of zebra butterflies when I lived in Miami and Hialeah, Florida (but had forgotten their name). I wish there were more butterflies around here in the desert.

Nonnie said...

lovely b&w subject!