but is readily distinguishable by the three white spots on
the tops of each forewing. Their larger size (about three
and a half inches across) and slow flight pattern with lots of
resting in between make them easy to spot all summer and
fall in Kiawah. They are readily attracted to any butterfly
garden, and love the wonderful variety of native plants
found in the Naturally Kiawah Demonstration Garden
in Night Heron Park. Look for them around the island’s
abundant lantana. All varieties of passionflower vines are
host sites for their caterpillars. Like the Cloudless Sulphurs,
they will migrate southward in the fall, generally wintering
in south Florida.
Perhaps our most notable guest of the butterfly
species is the iconic Monarch (Daaus plexippusI), arguably
the best known of all butterflies. About four inches across,
they are bright orange with familiar black and white
markings along the outside of their wings. They are common
on Kiawah during the summer and fall. Their larvae reside
exclusively on milkweed plants. The eastern population of
this colorful specimen is most noted for its two thousand
mile migration that takes place every fall. They leave their
summer resting places as far north as Canada and fly up
to two thousand miles to the mountains of Mexico. The
lifespan of a Monarch is usually about two months, but
those that migrate south last almost seven months during the
winter phase.
These five types of butterflies bring color and vibrancy to
every part of Kiawah. Take the time to get to know them.
They will lead you to sunny places where you can slow
down for a few minutes and just enjoy. n
Butterflies Common to Kiawah Island
Cloudless Sulphur photo by Tina Schell
Gulf Fritillary photo by Illene Olanoff
Monarch photo by Ann Gridley
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Phaon Crescent photo by Jack Kotz
Zebra Longwing photo by Diane Supple
White Peacock photo by Pamela Cohen
Common Buckeye photo by Pamela Cohen
Cabbage White photo by Pamela Cohen
Palamedes Swallow Tail photo by Dave Elliott