Euclea Tigerwing
Common NameEuclea Tigerwing
Scientific NameMechanitis polymnia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, yellow, brown, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Argentina)
Host PlantsSolanum
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, typically species of Solanum. Larvae are often striped, and pupae are usually green or gold, sometimes adorned with metallic spots.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its characteristic pattern of orange, yellow, and dark brown/black, particularly the broad orange band on the hindwing and yellow spots on the forewing apex. Its slow, deliberate flight is typical of aposematic butterflies in mimicry complexes.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with translucent orange and yellow patches contrasting with dark brown or black veins and margins. The forewings feature a distinct yellow band and apical spots, while the hindwings often have a broad orange band.
