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Agraulis vanillae
The Gulf Fritillary or Passion Butterfly , Agraulis vanillae , is a striking, bright orange butterfly of the family Nymphalidae, subfamily Heliconiinae . The Gulf Fritillary is a medium to large butterfly, with a wingspan of 6–9.5 cm (2.4–3.7 in). Its underwings are buff, with large silvery spots. It takes its name from migrating flights of the butterflies sometimes seen over the Gulf of Mexico.
The Gulf Fritillary is commonly seen in parks and gardens, as well as in open country. Its range extends from Argentina through Central America , Mexico, and the Caribbean to the southern United States, as far north as the San Francisco Bay Area on the west coast. It is occasionally found farther north in the US.
Gulf Fritillary caterpillar found on vine growing on fence outside of TERRA Environmental Research Institute butterfly garden
2 Comments
Thank you, I've seen your spottings around the school, they are great. It amazes me that there can be so much wildlife in one little area.
Very nice! I know the location well. I'll have to pass by for a photo soon, before they fly way. I took a pic of the vine and flowers a couple of weekends ago, but did not notice any caterpillars. :(