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Crimson speckled footman

Crimson speckled footman

Utetheisa pulchella

A species of Utetheisa, Also known as Crimson-speckled footman, Crimson speckled, Crimsonspeckle footman, Crotalaria moth

Endowed with an eye-catching wing pattern that functions as a deterrent against predators, crimson speckled footman is known to harbor toxins derived from its larval diet of alkaloid-rich plants. This aposematic display warns potential threats of its unpalatability. Throughout its lifecycle, it undergoes complete metamorphosis, developing from a caterpillar that voraciously consumes host plants, to an adult that sips nectar, contributing to pollination.

General Info About Crimson speckled footman
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Attributes of Crimson speckled footman
Colors
Black
Red
White
Orange
Habitat
coastal dune; rocky area; slope; warm, gappy vegetated habitat; grassland
Larva Food Source
Leaves of the crotalaria plant, other fabaceae family members
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Crimson speckled footman 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
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Crimson speckled footman feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Crimson speckled footman
It can be found in most of Europe (as a migrant), in the Afrotropical ecozone, in North Africa, in the Near East and Central Asia, in the Oriental ecozone.
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Distribution Area of Crimson speckled footman
Europe, Afrotropical realm, North Africa, Near East, Central Asia, Western Indomalayan realm, United Kingdom
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Life Cycle of Crimson speckled footman
Egg The embryonic crimson speckled footman resides within an egg, a safe and nourished environment. Tiny and barely perceptible, these spherical or oval capsules are often laid in clusters and possess variable coloring which can blend with the surrounding flora.
Larva Upon emerging, the caterpillar-like larva of crimson speckled footman is primarily focused on growth, molting multiple times. Its colors may mimic the environment for defense, and its mouthparts are adapted for chewing vegetation, the principal activity in this stage.
Pupal During this transformational phase, the larvae encase themselves in a chrysalis. The pupal crimson speckled footman is often hidden, exhibiting cryptic colors and shapes that provide protection. Metamorphic changes are profound, reorganizing into entirely new bodily structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult crimson speckled footman’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. The colors are typically vibrant and distinctive.
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Adult Size of Crimson speckled footman
3 - 4 cm
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Predators of Crimson speckled footman Larvae
Birds, small mammals, reptiles, arthropods
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Predators of Adult Crimson speckled footman
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Crimson speckled footman
The adult crimson speckled footman can deter predators with chemicals it retains from larval host plants, making it a master of chemical warfare defense.
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Scientific Classification of Crimson speckled footman
Tips for Finding Crimson speckled footman
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Youth Habitat of Crimson speckled footman
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas
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Adult Habitat of Crimson speckled footman
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas, Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests
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How Can You Attract Crimson speckled footman
There is no specific 'trap_food' that is universally effective for attracting crimson speckled footman, as the diet varies depending on the stage of metamorphosis. However, providing host plants on which the adults lay eggs can serve as a natural attractant for females looking to deposit eggs.
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Habitat Preferences of Crimson speckled footman Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of crimson speckled footman are often deposited on the leaves of the host plant, where larvae will have immediate access to food upon hatching. As they develop, larvae, or caterpillars, can be observed on or near host plants, frequently on the undersides of leaves, which provides them with both food and some protection from predators. Searching for these caterpillars often involves closely inspecting potential host plants during the day. Pupae may be found in loose soil or plant debris at the base of the host plant, where they remain camouflaged as they undergo metamorphosis. The adult crimson speckled footman is commonly found feeding on nectar and can be spotted in areas abundant with flowers, particularly during daylight hours.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Crimson speckled footman
The most suitable time to find adult crimson speckled footman is usually on warm, sunny days when they are most active, particularly in the late morning or early afternoon. However, the precise timing depends on the geographical location and the local climate.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Crimson speckled footman
Warm and sunny weather with little to no wind is typically best for observing crimson speckled footman in its adult form, as these conditions encourage flight and the adults are more likely to be found feeding or mating. For larval stages, weather is less of a factor, but mild temperatures can facilitate finding them on host plants.
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How and Where Can You Find Crimson speckled footman at Different Life Stages
Egg Crimson speckled footman eggs are typically laid on the undersides of leaves of host plants. Search for small, spherical or ovular orbs often clustered together beneath the leaves.
Larva Crimson speckled footman larvae can be easily found on or near their host plants. Look for caterpillars with distinct coloration that feeds openly on leaves. Hand-picking is possible if done gently.
Pupal Crimson speckled footman pupae are generally hidden in the environment around the host plant. Search for them in leaf litter or soil near the host plants, or sometimes suspended on the plant itself in a cocoon.
Adult Crimson speckled footman adults can be sighted during the day on or near flowers as they are diurnal. To spot them, visit flowering gardens or meadows during warm, sunny weather, and look for adults resting or feeding on nectar.
Are Crimson speckled footman harmful?
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