Pink-spotted Cattleheart
Common NamePink-spotted Cattleheart
Scientific NameParides iphidamas
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, red, blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama), and northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador)
Host PlantsAristolochia pilosa, Aristolochia grandiflora
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, peaking during wet seasons
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on *Aristolochia* vines, sequestering toxins that render both the caterpillars and adult butterflies unpalatable to predators. The pupa is typically cryptic.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall black coloration with a distinct row of pinkish-red spots on the hindwings, and the iridescent blue patch on the hindwings near the abdomen, which can vary in prominence.
Description
A striking butterfly with velvety black wings, featuring a prominent row of bright pinkish-red spots along the outer margin of the hindwings and a subtle iridescent blue patch near the body.
