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Gilbert's flasher

Gilbert's flasher

Astraptes alector

A species of Flashers

Astraptes alector is a butterfly from the family of the barkheads (Hesperiidae). The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1867 by Cajetan Freiherr von Felder & Felder.

General Info About Gilbert's flasher
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Attributes of Gilbert's flasher
Colors
Brown
Blue
Habitat
forest
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from lantana, flower nectar from eupatorium, flower nectar of moussonia, various asteraceae species flowers, other accessible flowering plants
Larva Food Source
Leaves of fabaceae plants, specifically members of the lonchocarpus and dalbergia genera
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Gilbert's flasher is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Gilbert's flasher
Egg Laid by the adult gilbert's flasher, the eggs are minute and color can vary. This stage is primarily for protection and to provide a nurturing environment until hatching occurs.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva or caterpillar emerges, designed for eating and growth. It has a tubular shape, distinct segments, and may display varied color patterns for camouflage.
Pupal After attaining sufficient size, the larva forms a pupa, during which the gilbert's flasher is immobile and encased. Transformation of body structures occurs internally, leading to a new morphology.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult gilbert's flasher’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Gilbert's flasher
4.5 - 5 cm
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Predators of Gilbert's flasher Larvae
Birds, rodents, arthropods
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Predators of Adult Gilbert's flasher
Birds, spiders, ants, wasps, mammals, reptiles
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Interesting Facts About Gilbert's flasher
Gilbert's flasher can regulate its body temperature by shivering, allowing it to remain active on cooler mornings when other species are immobile.
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Scientific Classification of Gilbert's flasher
Tips for Finding Gilbert's flasher
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How Can You Attract Gilbert's flasher
For adult gilbert's flasher, sweet substances such as overripe fruit or sugary solutions can be used as attractants. Larvae might be attracted to their host plants.
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Habitat Preferences of Gilbert's flasher Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of gilbert's flasher are often deposited on the host plants' leaves, where they develop, whereas the caterpillars reside on and consume the foliage of these plants, frequently hiding within folded leaves bound with silk during the day. Upon reaching pupation, the caterpillars of gilbert's flasher create a cocoon-like structure in the shelter of dense vegetation or leaf litter. Adult gilbert's flasher primarily inhabit open, sunny areas with flowering plants for nectar, such as meadows, forest edges, and gardens. To observe the different growth and development stages of gilbert's flasher, one would inspect the host plants for eggs and caterpillars, sift through the leaf litter for pupae, and visit flowery fields for adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Gilbert's flasher
Early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Adults are often more active for mating and feeding during these times.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Gilbert's flasher
Warm, sunny, and windless conditions are ideal for spotting gilbert's flasher as they are more likely to be active and visible.
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How and Where Can You Find Gilbert's flasher at Different Life Stages
Egg Gilbert's flasher eggs are typically laid on host plants. Search the leaves of known host plants, looking for small, round or oval objects that may be clustered or singular.
Larva Gilbert's flasher larvae or caterpillars can be found on or near their food plants. Look for partially eaten leaves or the presence of frass (caterpillar droppings) to locate them.
Pupal Gilbert's flasher pupae may be hidden in vegetation or attached to structures close to the ground. They can be spotted by searching in leaf litter or on the underside of leaves of host plants.
Adult Adult gilbert's flasher can be found feeding on nectar-rich flowers, especially early in the morning or late in the day. Observing quiet and sunshine-exposed areas with blooming plants will increase the chances of sightings.
Are Gilbert's flasher harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Gilbert's flasher
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Gilbert's flasher flutters from blossom to blossom, primarily favoring Asteraceae family flowers. It's attracted by the vivid colors and unique shapes of these blooms. Pollen consumption for sustenance is the key driver of gilbert's flasher's pollinating activities.
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