Spanish Festoon; Mariposa arlequín

Description:

Middle-sized butterfly with a wingspan up to 5 cm. The wings present on their upper face a unique yellow, black and red checkerboard that cannot be confused with any other species. It also has extensive red on the forewings. There is only one generation flying from February to May. The caterpillars winter as chrysalis. The caterpillars feed on Aristolochia species, accumulating toxic alkaloids as a defense against predators.

Habitat:

Open pine tree forest. Dehesa de Valdelatas

Notes:

Camera Model: NIKON D300. Exposure Time: 1/800 sec.; f/14; ISO Speed Rating: 800. Focal Length: 300.0 mm. DSC_6983