Heliconius hortense

Mexican Longwing

Basic Information

General information

Family: Nymphalidae
Sub Family: Heliconiinae
Estimated Lifespan 14 Days

Garden Specific Information

Estimated Number In Flight: 0
Total Number of Pupae Received: 181
First Flown On: 02/03/12
Last Flown On: 11/04/22

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 cloudforest habitats.

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.