This interpretive trail provides food for butterflies, moths and
skippers (collectively known Lepidoptera) during both the
caterpillar and adult stages. Most adult Lepidoptera are
generalists that drink nectar from a variety of flowers, but
many caterpillars can survive only by feeding on specific types
of plants. As development continues to threaten local
biodiversity, this trail provides the plants necessary to
supporting nearly 20 species of caterpillars, an essential part
of the food web. Click here for a list of the "20 Most Valuable
Woody and Perennial Native Plant Genera in Terms of Supporting
Biodiversity in the Mid-Atlantic Region," courtesy of Dr. Doug
Tallamy. For more information about caterpillar host plants, see
Dr. Tallamy's website on Lepidopteran Use of Native & Alien
Ornamental Plants. Or, listen to him on National Public Radio's
"Science Friday."