Telesiphe Longwing
Common NameTelesiphe Longwing
Scientific NameHeliconius telesiphe
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, pink, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America (Costa Rica) to South America (Bolivia, Brazil)
Host PlantsPassiflora spp. (passionflowers)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on passionflower vines, sequestering toxins that make them unpalatable. Adults are also toxic and known for their long lifespan, partly due to pollen feeding.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive elongated wings with a broad pinkish-red band across the forewing and a prominent white patch on the hindwing, all set against a dark brown background.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with elongated wings, featuring a dark brown background adorned with striking pinkish-red and white bands and patches.
