Chief
Common NameChief
Scientific NameMechanitis polymnia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, yellow, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Argentina)
Host PlantsSolanum spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on Solanaceae host plants. Larvae are typically striped, and pupae are often metallic or adorned with spines.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark wings with a large yellow/orange hindwing patch and forewing spots. Its slow, deliberate flight and aposematic coloration are key features, often participating in mimicry complexes.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings, featuring a prominent yellow or orange patch on the hindwings and several yellow or orange spots on the forewings.
