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Tiger longwing

Tiger longwing

Heliconius hecale

A species of Longwings, Also known as Golden longwing, Heart-spotted heliconian

Heliconius hecale (synonym: Philaethria hecale) is a species of butterfly that occurs from Mexico to Peru. The butterfly is found both in open meadows and in tropical rain forests.

General Info About Tiger longwing
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Attributes of Tiger longwing
Colors
Black
White
Orange
Habitat
forested area
Adult Food Sources
Lantana flowers, hibiscus flowers, heliotropium flowers, stachytarpheta flowers, duranta flowers
Larva Food Source
Passiflora leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Tiger longwing can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Tiger longwing is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of Tiger longwing
It is a heliconiid butterfly that occurs from Mexico to the Peruvian Amazon.
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Distribution Area of Tiger longwing
From Mexico to the Peruvian Amazon
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Life Cycle of Tiger longwing
Egg The egg of tiger longwing is typically oval and diminutive. Colors may vary, blending with the environment often for camouflage. Laid on host plants, this stage is short-lived, serving as a simple protective capsule for the developing embryo within.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of tiger longwing appears as a caterpillar, equipped with chewing mouthparts for consuming foliage. It's elongated with distinct segments and grows significantly, molting several times. Color patterns serve as camouflage or warning signals.
Pupal The tiger longwing enters the pupa stage encased in a chrysalis, during which it undergoes remarkable transformation. The pupa may exhibit colors that blend with the surroundings or mimic other materials as a defense against predators.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult tiger longwing has expanded wings, covered in scales that define its vivid colors and patterns. The body is streamlined for flight. Reproductive structures are fully developed, and it is now focused on mating and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of Tiger longwing
2.5 - 3.5 cm
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Predators of Tiger longwing Larvae
Ants, wasps, spiders, birds
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Predators of Adult Tiger longwing
Birds, spiders, praying mantises
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Scientific Classification of Tiger longwing
Tips for Finding Tiger longwing
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Youth Habitat of Tiger longwing
Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Tiger longwing
Tropical Rainforests
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How Can You Attract Tiger longwing
Tiger longwing can be attracted using bait traps. For adults, rotting fruit or fermenting bait, such as a mixture of brown sugar and beer, can be effective. As caterpillars, they feed on specific host plants, so providing or preserving these plants can help in locating them.
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Habitat Preferences of Tiger longwing Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of tiger longwing are typically found on the undersides of passionflower leaves, where they are laid singly. The caterpillars reside on the host plants, feeding on the leaves and are usually camouflaged among them. In searching for pupae, one should inspect the surrounding vegetation as they often pupate away from the host plant on nearby structures, where they are more concealed. Adult tiger longwing butterflies are generally found in tropical habitats, fluttering above the forest floor or visiting flowers in nearby areas for nectar throughout the day.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Tiger longwing
The best time to find tiger longwing typically is during daylight hours when the adult butterflies are most active, especially in the morning or late afternoon. The temporal occurrence of larvae and pupae largely depends on the breeding cycles, which may vary with local climate conditions.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Tiger longwing
Tiger longwing are more likely to be observed in warm, sunny weather as they are cold-blooded and rely on environmental heat for activity. Overcast or rainy days may lead them to take refuge, making them harder to spot.
Are Tiger longwing harmful?
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The tiger longwing can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Tiger longwing harmful to humans?

Some larvae of tortoiseshell butterflies feed on milkweed, which is a poisonous plant containing cardiac glycosides, so the larvae are poisonous. Although poisonous, these butterflies will not directly affect humans if not swallowed. Touching the larvae of certain tortoiseshell butterflies may cause a rash.
Beneficial Effects of Tiger longwing
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Tiger longwing primarily pollinates flowers of the Passifloraceae family, attracted by their vibrant color and distinctive shape. These butterflies actively consume pollen as part of their diet, inadvertently transferring pollen from one flower to another as they feed.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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