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Gold spotted sylph

Gold spotted sylph

Metisella metis

A species of Sylphs, Also known as Western goldspotted sylph

The wingspan is 2.5 - 3.5 cm for males and 3 - 3.5 cm for females. The upperside of the wings are dark brown or black with a number of gold spots.

General Info About Gold spotted sylph
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Attributes of Gold spotted sylph
Colors
Black
Yellow
Habitat
grassy area
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from ageratum, flower nectar from tridax, flower nectar from vernonia, various other flowering plants with accessible nectar
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Gold spotted sylph is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Gold spotted sylph
It is found in the Cape and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.
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Distribution Area of Gold spotted sylph
South Africa
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Predators of Gold spotted sylph Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, spiders
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Predators of Adult Gold spotted sylph
Birds, spiders, mantis, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Gold spotted sylph
Gold spotted sylph can perform rapid, zigzag flights and often exhibit a unique mating dance that involves aerial acrobatics.
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Scientific Classification of Gold spotted sylph
Tips for Finding Gold spotted sylph
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Youth Habitat of Gold spotted sylph
Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Gold spotted sylph
Grasslands and Prairies
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When is the Best Time to Observe Gold spotted sylph
Each stage of gold spotted sylph's life cycle may have different active periods. Larvae generally feed during the day, making this a good time to find them. Adults are typically active during the day when temperatures are warm and on sunny days when they can be seen feeding on nectar.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Gold spotted sylph
Warm, sunny weather without strong winds is ideal to find gold spotted sylph as it provides optimal conditions for their flight and feeding behavior. Excessive rain, cold, or overcast conditions may inhibit their activity.
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How and Where Can You Find Gold spotted sylph at Different Life Stages
Egg Gold spotted sylph eggs are often laid on the underside of leaves of the host plants. To find them, inspect these areas of known host plants in the habitat where gold spotted sylph frequents.
Larva Gold spotted sylph larvae (caterpillars) are usually found on or near their host plants upon which they feed. Search for gold spotted sylph larvae by looking for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and by carefully examining the host plants.
Pupal Gold spotted sylph chrysalises may be camouflaged and attached to plant structures, making them challenging to spot. Look on twigs, stems, or even the underside of leaves close to where the larvae feed.
Adult Gold spotted sylph adults are most easily spotted when foraging for nectar on flowering plants. Identify areas with abundant flowers known to attract butterflies and wait patiently for gold spotted sylph to arrive.
Are Gold spotted sylph harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Gold spotted sylph
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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
Gold spotted sylph is a dedicated pollinator that flutters from flower to flower, primarily attracted by their vivid colors and distinctive shapes. It consumes pollen as a food source, contributing to cross-pollination through contact with its body.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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