Florida Purplewing
Common NameFlorida Purplewing
Scientific NameEunica tatila tatilista
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorspurple, brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, hammocks, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida, Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsFicus citrifolia, Ficus aurea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas; multiple broods, mainly spring to fall in Florida
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and a spiny appearance, feeding on fig leaves. Pupae are typically green or brown, camouflaged against vegetation.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent purple sheen on the upperside of the wings, contrasting with dark brown borders and prominent white spots on the forewings. The underside is cryptic brown/grey.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking iridescent purple central area on its upperside, bordered by dark brown margins, and a row of white spots near the forewing apex.
