The Julia heliconian butterfly is one of three in the heliconian subfamily – a member of the longwing. I read that the Julia’s legs are covered in short bristles. Their elongated wings can stretch to 9.2 centimeters.

The male butterfly is brighter orange with black spots toward the apex, while the female is duller orange with black bars across the apex.

I am so grateful this beauty stayed with me for a little while before it flew into the garden and stayed even longer. It’s an extraordinary moment when a butterfly rests on your finger, or hand, especially one that has never before! I sure hope this species becomes a permanent visitor of the garden.

As promised here are photographs of the Julia butterfly that emerged yesterday, successfully released today.