The Ruddy Daggerwing butterfly (Marpesia petreus) can be found in southern Florida most of the year, but most commonly in the summer months. It's habitat is tropical lowland forests and the edges of hardwood hammocks.
The host plants for this species are Strangler Figs (Ficus aurea), Wild Banyan Trees (Ficus citrifolia) and the Common Fig (Ficus carica). They are generalist feeders on wildflowers and rotting fruit. This one is feeding on a White Vine (Sarcostemma clausum).
Easily spotted by their orange color and 3 1/2 " wingspan, they mimic a dried leaf from a ventral view.
Ruddy Daggerwing range in Florida.
Can you spot the Daggerwing?
These photos were taken in late summer at the Audubon Society's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. What a great walk at such a wonderful time of the year.
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