Hersilia Mestra
Common NameHersilia Mestra
Scientific NameMestra hersilia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, cream
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to Argentina
Host PlantsDalechampia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on species of Dalechampia plants. Like all butterflies, it undergoes complete metamorphosis from egg to larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and finally the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinct pale transverse bands on the brown-orange wings, which are visible on both the upper and underside. The overall pattern is quite consistent across its range.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a warm brown and orange-brown base color, prominently marked with creamy-white to pale yellow transverse bands across both the forewings and hindwings.
