Northern Surprising-White
Common NameNorthern Surprising-White
Scientific NameHeliconius erato
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsblack, orange, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, Mexico
Host PlantsPassiflora spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on new growth of host plants. Larvae are spiny and feed on passion vines. Pupae are cryptic, resembling dead leaves or twigs. Adults are long-lived, feeding on nectar and pollen.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its black wings with a broad orange band on the forewing and yellow streaks at the base of the hindwing. Often confused with its mimic, Heliconius melpomene.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with black wings, a prominent orange band across the forewing, and yellow streaks near the body on the hindwing.
