Heliconius erato

Crimson-Patch Longwing

Basic Information

General information

Family: “Nymphalidae”
Sub Family: “Heliconiinae”
Estimated Lifespan 30 Days

Garden Specific Information

Estimated Number In Flight: 48
Total Number of Pupae Received: 10437
First Flown On: 10/21/02
Last Flown On: 10/31/24

Species Range:

  • “NorthAmerica” “SouthAmerica”

Host plants:

  • Passiflora

Food Source

The adults of this species are both nectar and pollen feeders just like most Heliconian butterflies.

Habitat

This butterfly can be found in a variety of habitats including forest, urban gardens, orchards and roadsides.

Life history

Eggs are laid singly on the tender shoots of the host plant.

Flights

Because there are multiple generations per yer and with their long life span this butterfly can be found in flight year round.

Fun Facts

Heliconius butterflies exhibit communal roosting behavior, so they can be seen grouped in large numbers at night.