Atala Hairstreak Eumaeus atala Family: Lycaenidae Subfamily: Eumaeinae (Hairstreak)
Size: 1 5/8 -2 inches (41-51 mm).
Black with blue dots along hindwing margin; orange-red spot on hindwing near orange-red abdomen.
Host Plant: Cycads, Coontie Zamia pumila (Z. floridana, Z. integrifolia,Z. angustifolia, Z. silvicola, Z. umbrosa)
Life Cycle: Eggs are laid in clusters on tender fronds of the host plant. The eggs are whitish, hard and flat.
Caterpillar is brilliant red with two rows of yellow spots along the back. The caterpillars feed in groups.
Chrysalis is rusty brown and usually can be found on its host plant hanging in clusters. The adults roost in colonies under the canopy of trees.
Flight: All year. More abundant in early summer.Range: Southeast Florida-Palm Beach County to Dade County, Florida Keys, Bahamas, Cuba and Cayman Brac.
Habitat: Shaded, subtropical hardwood hammocks and adjacent open areas where coontie grows