Red Postman
Common NameRed Postman
Scientific NameHeliconius erato
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsorange, yellow, dark brown
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, South America
Host Plantspassion-flower vines (Passifloraceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on passion-flower vines, accumulating toxins that render both caterpillars and adults unpalatable to predators. Adults are long-lived and supplement their nectar diet with pollen.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive combination of orange-red forewings and yellow hindwings with radiating red stripes. Its slow, deliberate flight is a clue to its toxicity. It is part of a mimicry complex with other *Heliconius* species, notably *Heliconius melpomene*.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by vibrant orange-red forewings with dark brown tips and spots, and bright yellow hindwings adorned with radiating orange-red stripes.
