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Resources <Wildlife Habitats <Guide to Native Plants of Georgia for Wildlife <Intro to Host Plants
Wild things, both plant and animal, are interrelated and interdependent. When we think of wildlife habitat, we often conjure thoughts of large forests, field edges, wildlife openings, and flowing watercourses. In fact, wildlife habitat is all around us in our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and the surrounding countryside. Wildlife habitat is made up of four basic components: food, water, cover, and a place to raise and nurture young. All wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and even the overlooked yet important insects, need healthy habitat. This section focuses on the relationship between native plants and the butterflies and moths that utilize them as habitats.
Butterflies and moths (insects of the taxonomic order Lepidoptera) contribute to the biodiversity and ecological balance of Georgia. We often view butterflies during the day as they ride the wind, visit flowering plants in our landscapes, and bask in the sun. Moths are more commonly encountered near artificial night lighting. During the day, however, if we look closely, we can find moths resting, camouflaged among tree bark and leaves, and waiting for their nocturnal adventures. The life cycles of moths and butterflies—from egg to larva to pupa to adult—correspond to the seasons, providing pollination services to flowering plants and food to migrating birds and their young. These delicate garden jewels and sometimes camouflaged treasures are a delight to wildlife enthusiasts.
Butterflies and moths are as varied in size and coloration as they are in preference for food plants. All are dependent upon host plants and nectar plants. Adults feed upon nectar, but host plants are required to provide the basic habitat needed for their offspring (larvae.) Sometimes this relationship is very specific, as with Zebra Swallowtail larvae which only feed on pawpaw species. Other butterflies, such as the Buckeye, are not so selective and will choose among several plants as food for the larvae.
Native species of moths and butterflies are naturally drawn to native host plants to lay their eggs. Using native plants in gardens and landscapes is an important way to continue the symbiotic relationships between our native plants and our native insect pollinators. Doing so assures us and our children the experience of living in a healthy, biologically diverse world.
There are some considerations about which native plants to use in your butterfly garden, backyard, schoolyard habitat, or landscaping. Do research, and compile a list. Choose the native plants that seem most suitable for your growing conditions, aesthetic tastes, and best support wildlife. If attracting a specific butterfly or moth is desired, plant patches of both its host plant and nectar food plants. Using native host plants for these vital and enjoyable wildlife neighbors is an easy and enjoyable way to create and restore native habitats while providing necessary habitat components for butterflies and moths in Georgia.
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