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Postman

Heliconius melpomene rosina

Photo by pamsai
Published on Project Noah
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10.15, -83.81

Field Notes

Description:

The Postman Butterfly, Common Postman, or simply Postman[1] (Heliconius melpomene) is one of the heliconiine butterflies found from Mexico to northern South America

Heliconius butterflies are characterised by having a very delicate fluttering flight, particularly when hovering around flowers.

Habitat:

This species occurs commonly at elevations between 0-1800m on both sides of the Andes. It can be seen flying in two's or three's around clearings, and along roads and tracks through primary forest. It is commoner however in secondary forest, and can be found flying in coffee plantations, gardens, orchards and along roadsides and forest edges.

Species ID Suggestions

Postman

Heliconius melpomene rosina

Comments (4)

Woops Cindy, I knew that! Must have been a slip of the finger! Thanks...
It is actually the other one: Heliconius melpomene rosina, from open wing shots identical with Heliconius erato petiverana. The underwings are different.

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