Red Postman
Common NameRed Postman
Scientific NameHeliconius erato
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, red, yellow
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America
Host PlantsPassiflora spp. (passionflower vines)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on passionflower vines, sequestering toxins that make both caterpillars and adults unpalatable to predators. Adults are long-lived and engage in 'pollen feeding' for additional nutrients.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its black wings with a bold red band on the forewing and a yellow or white band on the hindwing. It is a Müllerian mimic, often resembling *Heliconius melpomene*, but *H. erato* typically has a more pointed forewing and the red band on the forewing is often more solid.
Description
A striking black butterfly with a prominent, broad red band across the forewings and a distinct yellow or white band on the hindwings.
