The Gulf Fritillary or Passion Butterfly is a bright orange butterfly of the family Nymphalidae and subfamily Heliconiinae. The Gulf Fritillary is a medium to large butterfly, with a wingspan of 6–9.5 cm. Its underwings are buff, with large silvery spots. It takes its common name from its migration over the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf Fritillary is commonly seen in parks and gardens, as well as in open country.
Fun Fact The larva is a caterpillar which grows to approximately 4 cm in length. It is bright orange in color and covered in rows of black spines. The spines are soft to the touch and do not sting, but the larva is poisonous if eaten.