The Ruddy Daggerwing is a tropical butterfly with brilliant orange wings and long, pointed tails on both hindwings. It is one of the most striking butterflies in South Florida where it occasionally colonizes seasonally. Its dagger-wing silhouette is unmistakable. Adults perch with wings spread on sunlit leaves in tropical hammocks and wander into gardens.
Habitat
Tropical hammocks and forest edges of South Florida
Diet
Larvae: fig trees. Adults: rotting fruit, bird droppings, and nectar
How common
Uncommon
Recent Ruddy Daggerwing sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Ruddy Daggerwing? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.
Get Huck — free