Lansdorf's Crescent
Common NameLansdorf's Crescent
Scientific NameHeliconius melpomene
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America
Host PlantsPassiflora spp. (passion vines)
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on young passion vine leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on the host plant. Pupae are cryptic, often resembling dead leaves or thorns. Adults are long-lived and feed on both nectar and pollen.
Identification TipsIdentified by its black wings with a large orange patch on the forewing and a white/cream band on the hindwing. Many subspecies and mimics exist, so specific patterns can vary, but this general coloration is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with black wings, featuring a prominent orange patch on the forewings and a distinct white or cream-colored band across the hindwings and extending onto the forewings.
