Zebra Heliconian, also known as Zebra Longwing, is a rare stray from the south in North Carolina. In 2008 a record population of over 30 individuals was discovered on Bogue Banks, NC, first at Fort Macon, then Hoop Hole Creek and other sites. A gravid female stray from the Florida population may have made it to Bogue Banks early in the season and laid numerous eggs on Yellow Passionflower (Passiflora lutea) vines, common in the area, establishing the population. All these butterflies should eventually be killed during the winter frosts.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
The stripes appear creamy white to yellowish, depending on the lighting conditions.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
Female ovipositing. The eyes are incredibly patterned -- white with black spots, recalling the pattern on the body of the caterpillar (see below).
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
Female ovipositing.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
Two eggs laid at the tip of an expanding Yellow Passionflower leaf.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
Detail of the yellow corncob-like egg.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
A small, probably third or fourth instar caterpillar. The first instar is more orange.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
A large, probably final instar caterpillar. The caterpillars are unmistakeable white with black spines and black spots. The head, to the right, blend right in with the body pattern.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
Same individual. The head is to the left.
Fort Macon, Carteret Co., NC 7/13/08.
