gossamer-wing butterflies okay to eat?

[pssh]

Today I caught a gray copper (Lycaena xanthoides) and some Two-banded Checkered-Skipper
(Pyrgus ruralis). Just wondering if they can be fed off?

 

[pssh]

Also what about buckeyes? (Junonia coenia) Supposing they were fed strictly on plantain?

 

[Lizardlover]

Butterflies, IMO are tricky. Some species can be toxic, others are fine. It really depends on the host plant the larvae feed off of.

 

[greenguy420]

I would read to see what butters are toxic first, it depends on the plant but some are toxic because they just are...

 

[Lizardlover]

I would read to see what butters are toxic first, it depends on the plant but some are toxic because they just are...

That would be a pretty long list. Im not aware of such a list, Ive looked to see if maybe there were local species lists.

 

[pssh]

Awe poop. I couldn't find anything on the buckeyes, but they would only be fed plantain which is safe, sooooo....

 

[pssh]

If I test the butterflies on a feeder gecko and it doesn't die, that means it's safe right?

 

[andy27012]

I don't know but I don't really see the point, there are tons of cheap available feeders out there that can be purchased local or mail ordered why risk it? Why do you have the desire to feed a non highly used feeder?

 

[pssh]

I like catching butterflies plus I'm breeding painted ladies to sell to you guys for more variety. Maybe I'll be able to make it a more used feeder.