Heliconius melpomone Amazing colour forms PUPAE

Heliconius melpomone Central and South America

The Heliconius butterflies are mimetic, not only of each other, but they also imitate other species that are distastful to predators. The infinite variety of colour forms  and patterns of this particular strain is astonishing.

The habits of Heliconius butterflies are wonderful to observe. Some are capapble of hovering and even flying backwards. The butterflies are able to gather not only nectar through the proboscis, but also pollen which they store in the coils of the proboscis.

Some individuals have been known to survive for months, even in captive conditions.

Eggs are laid on the growing shoots and tendrils of Passiflora, on which the larvae feed. Most lay eggs individually though some lay in groups. The butterflies are continuously brooded and can become a magnificent feature of a greenhouse or conservatory.