Postman Butterfly
Common NamePostman Butterfly
Scientific NameHeliconius melpomene
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, red, yellow
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil)
Host PlantsPassiflora species (passion-flower vines)
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on passion-flower tendrils. Larvae are spiny and feed on the leaves. Adults are long-lived, uniquely supplementing their nectar diet with pollen to obtain amino acids.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic black wings with a prominent red band across the forewing and often yellow or white spots on the hindwing. Its slow, deliberate flight is also a key indicator of its aposematic nature.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with predominantly black wings, featuring a prominent red band across the forewings and often yellow or white spots on the hindwings, serving as a warning to predators.
