Nature Field Guide
Zebra Longwing Butterfly
- Spanish name
- Mariposa cebra
- Scientific name
- Heliconius charithonia complex (ACG: H. vazquezae)
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “Let's look closely at the zebra longwing butterfly!”
Tati: “We can compare its shape and markings without touching it.”
Species overview
About the Zebra Longwing Butterfly
Zebra-patterned longwings belong to a taxonomically complex group. Recent ACG material uses Heliconius vazquezae for its local population.
Identification
Key Features of the Zebra Longwing Butterfly
Long narrow black wings
pale yellow stripes
slow deliberate flight
Habitat & range
Forest paths, edges and nearby vegetation in Guanacaste. Local habitat and abundance vary.
Local observations
Costa Rican references are linked below. Guanacaste is the documented regional starting point; these tags are not a complete national range map.
When to observe
Look during suitable weather. Activity and visibility vary by locality and species.
Conservation & care
Observe without collecting, handling or disturbing insects or nests. Stay on permitted paths. Leave caterpillars and their food plants in place.
Observation activity
Record the date, location and two visible clues. Compare your observation with a verified photograph before naming a species.