The Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae) is a vibrant butterfly native to the southern United States, Central America, and parts of South America. It is easily recognized by its bright orange wings with black spots on the upper side and striking silver spots on the underside. The butterfly’s primary host plants are passionflowers (Passiflora species), on which the caterpillars feed and develop. These plants provide essential nutrients and also contain chemicals that make the caterpillars and adult butterflies distasteful to predators. A fun fact about the Gulf Fritillary is that it is one of the fastest butterflies in North America, known for its swift, erratic flight patterns that help it evade threats. This butterfly also plays an important role as a pollinator, aiding in the health and diversity of its native ecosystems.