If caterpillars are stripping a plant of leaves, take a sample of the offending insect to the University of Florida Extension Service for identification. If you want to discourage the insect, ask for suggestions on least-toxic controls. Butterflies of different species are attracted to specific flowering nectar plants such as native wildflowers, shrubs and vines. The University of Florida Extension Service and Florida Native Plant Society can provide information on which butterflies are found in your area and which plants they use. Snags or dead trees can be left in place if they don't threaten structures or parking areas.
Birds use the snags for perches, nesting and sources of insects for food.
Literature from the Urban Wildlife Program of the University of Florida Extension Service can aid in your plans. The pamphlets list scores of plants and their wildlife-attracting characteristics, plus they describe which birds, butterflies or mammals use various plants. In some counties you can apply for your yard to be certified as a Florida Wildlife Habitat. Rain that falls in your yard should soak into your yard. After all, rainfall is an excellent source of water for your landscape, and reducing runoff will help protect waterways.