Tithorea tarricina

Cream-Spotted Tigerwing or Tarricina Lingwing

Basic Information

General information

Family: “Nymphalidae”
Sub Family: Ithomiinae
Estimated Lifespan 26 Days

Garden Specific Information

Estimated Number In Flight: 3
Total Number of Pupae Received: 1180
First Flown On: 10/21/02
Last Flown On: 12/12/24

Species Range:

  • “SouthAmerica”

Host plants:

  • Larvae feed on plants in the Genus Prestonia such as portabellensis and longifolia.

Food Source

Adults visit a variety of nectar plants such as Epidendrum panniculatum, Eupatorium, Psychotria, and Hamelia.

Etymology Of Name

The origin of the genus and species of Tithorea tarricina is currently unknown.

Habitat

Adults are often observed in forested areas with moderate to high precipitation. They frequent the forest edge and areas immediately surrounding the area.

Life history

Males perch in trees waiting for females to pass through the area. From late morning until early afternoon, females lay their eggs on the host plants. The larvae feed on the host plant until they are ready to form their pupae.

Flights

There are multiple generations each year which makes it possible to find adults year round.

Fun Facts

The pupa of the Cream-Spotted Tigerwing is a metallic color. The surface of the pupae is so reflective that it is possible to see your reflection in the surface. The advantage of a pupa with such a reflective surface is that it picks up the color from its surroundings, allowing it to blend in almost anywhere.