Pansy Daggerwing
Common NamePansy Daggerwing
Scientific NameMarpesia pansy
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsorange, purple, dark brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, occasionally straying into southern North America (e.g., Texas, Florida)
Host PlantsFicus spp. (figs)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; summer and fall in northern parts of its range
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae (caterpillars) feed on the leaves of fig trees (Ficus species).
Identification TipsEasily identified by the unique combination of iridescent purple on the forewings and bright orange on the hindwings, along with the prominent, elongated, and pointed tails on the hindwings.
Description
A striking medium-sized butterfly with iridescent purple patches on the forewings, bright orange hindwings, and dark brown margins. Its hindwings feature distinctive long, pointed 'dagger-like' tails.
