Critter Corner: Florida's state butterflies are mating

👋 Deirdra here. I recently noticed about two dozen butterflies flapping frantically in my neighborhood.

• A neighbor with the butterfly-saving organization Bound by Beauty told me they were zebra longwings.

Details: Males can sense whether a pupa inside a chrysalis is female, and then fight over her.

• The winner copulates with her as she emerges.
• The couple sits side by side when done, so at least he cuddles afterward!

Of note: To attract zebra longwings to your yard, plant passion vines or wild lime, and avoid pesticides.