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Life Cycle of Butterflies

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Atala (Eumaeus atala)

This unique, colorful, slow-flying butterfly is only found in the southern tip of Florida. The wingspan is one and a half inches and is black with a vivid red abdomen. It has a red spot and many small blue specks on the hind wings. The bright coloration is a reminder to predators to stay away. The Atala’s host plant is a toxic cycad and the Atala is able to store the toxins in its own body as a natural defense. This butterfly has escaped near-extinction due to many people adding the Coontie cycad plant into their suburban landscapes. Invite this year-round flying butterfly into your yard by planting Coontie today!

Family: Gossamer Wing (Lycaenidae)

Subfamily: Hairstreak (Theclinae)

Average Wingspan: 1 1/2" - 2"

Habitat: Open Woodlands, Tropical Lowlands, Surburbs

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Lantana
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Coontie

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Closed wing - Nature Pals