Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1392666

Zebra Heliconian
Heliconius charithonia

Observation date: August 29, 2024
Submitted by: theskyeworld
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This is one of the happiest days I’ve had in years with the butterfly garden. My husband came in yelling to get me because he knew it was something special. The Zebra Longwing daintily flew around the garden. It looked young. It was feisty and went to battle with a much larger swallow butterfly over a flower. It was very tame and didn’t seem to be bothered by our close proximity. Truly magical! Note - this is the FIRST time to see a longwing zebra since the 2011 Bastrop fire wiped out almost everything. We had another huge fire in 20215 and a “small one” that only burned 10 acres. We’ve been so determined to turn things around here, especially for birds and butterflies. Planting over 1000+ pine seedlings will test your hopes.
Status: Resident
Verified by: jwileyrains
Verified date: August 29, 2024
Coordinator notes: Great sighting. Glad you're recovering from the fires.
Checklist region(s): United States, Texas, Bastrop County