If you’ve been to SOAR lately, you may have seen something that looks like a small zebra flying. No, it’s not actually a flying zebra… it’s our Butterfly of the Week, the zebra longwing! This butterfly is known for its black/brown wings and yellow or white stripes and is the only longwing representative in the United States. Get to know our friends, the zebra longwing, a little better by reading the fun facts below. Then make sure to visit them in person with a trip to SOAR!

Fun Facts:

  • Zebra longwing butterflies live more than twice as long as other butterflies because they eat pollen, an additional source of protein, and drink nectar. 
  • Zebra longwings are found in Peru and as far North as Texas and Florida. In fact, it’s Florida’s State Butterfly.
  • As caterpillars, they feed on the leaves of the passion vine.
  • The zebra stripes are a warning to predators, informing them that the butterflies are poisonous.
  • Their wingspan is 3 – 3.5 inches long.

To visit SOAR and see the zebra longwing in person, click here.