The state butterfly for state of Florida is the zebra longwing or heliconian. This beautiful butterfly is more common in the southern regions of Florida. It has a slow wafting flight this easily recognized, however, when disturbed, this butterfly can fly quickly. During the evening hours, many zebra longwings will congregate or roost together.
Habitat: Hammocks and shrubby disturbed sites
Florida range: Throughout most of the state with the exception of the western panhandle
Larval host plants: Corky-Stemmed Passion-Flower (Passiflora suberosa); Maypop (Passiflora incarnata); Yellow Passion-Flower (Passiflora lutea)
Flight: All year in south and central Florida, late summer months in the north
Occurrence: Locally abundant
Link for more information: http://abacus.gene.ucl.ac.uk/jim/helicinf.htm