Atala Butterfly (Eumaeus atala)
Black Butterfly with a Red Abdomen
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards
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!
Atala Photos, Facts, And Information
Yellow Round Butterfly Eggs
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards
Red Caterpillar with Yellow Spots
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards
Brown Chrysalis with Yellow Spots
Copyright: Regina Cutter Edwards
Atala Host and Nectar Plants
Host Plants for the Atala: (What is this?)
Nectar Plants for the Atala: (What is this?)
We are working on adding plants for this butterfly. See how you can help.
Atala Facts And Information
Butterfly Family: Gossamer-wings (Lycaenidae)
Butterfly Subfamily: Hairstreak (Theclinae)
Butterfly Wingspan: 1 1/2 in. to 2 in.
Butterfly Habitat: Open Woodlands, Tropical Lowlands, Surburbs
Atala Flight Range Map
Note: Map represents approximate butterfly flight range.
