Creature Feature Encyclopedia: Insecta

Zebra Longwing Morpho menelaus Note: The Zebra Longwing is the state butterfly of Florida.

The Zebra Longwing is a very distinctive butterfly. The bold coloration and unique flight pattern of this insect set it apart from any other butterfly. Its long, narrow wings are banded with intense yellow stripes, and speckled around the edges with colorful spots. The Zebra Longwing's usual flight is slow and wafting, with extremely shallow wingbeats. When alarmed, however, it can make good speed as it dodges expertly to cover. Zebra Longwings roost in colonies at night, assembling during dusk. During the day, they scatter again to feed. This butterfly feeds on passion flowers, and hatches multiple broods throughout the year. The range of the Zebra Longwing includes southern portions of North America, as well as most of tropical America.

~A Fly in the Sky © 1996