Florida has a diverse and fascinating insect population, but it is the butterfly that has been a constant in every green space I have ever managed, and it is my very favorite insect of all. They come in all shapes and sizes, they visit every type of habitat, all types of flowers and plants, and many gardens. I am particularly fond of the small, obscure, butterflies which are easily overlooked and underappreciated.
Many butterflies are becoming scarce because they require natural areas with wildflowers and native grasses in order to thrive. Pesticide use and habitat loss are the biggest threats to these delicate creatures. I encourage everyone to leave a bit of wild space and avoid poisons that devastate our pollinators, including (especially!) the butterflies. Pesticides and herbicides are highly toxic, and dangerous, as well as unnecessary! Natural weed and pest control methods exist and I have had great success with this over the years.
Many of the smaller butterfly varieties are atrociously difficult to photograph! They are just so fast and flighty that I have spent countless hours snapping, and deleting photos of these speedsters. I hope you get inspired to attract as many of our native butterflies to your habitat as you possibly can!