Butterfly Viewing

Know How to Look

Approach slowly and cautiously. Butterflies have good eyesight and are easily startled by quick movements.

Approach from a low angle. If a butterfly is resting on a flower or perch at your eye level or above, it is often possible to get very close.

When one is perched on low vegetation, you should approach from as close to its level as possible. Butterflies are most wary of potential predators attacking from above.

Watch out for your shadow. Quick changes in light may signal danger, such as an approaching predator, and scare butterflies away.

Take advantage of opportunities. Butterflies are easier to observe when feeding at flowers or laying eggs.

Excerpts from "Florida's Other Winged Wonders" by Jaret Daniels and Anne Glick, Florida Wildlife Magazine, July/August 2008 Issue.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
 

Gray Hairstreak