Astyra Owl Butterfly
Common NameAstyra Owl Butterfly
Scientific NameBrassolis astyra
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black
HabitatTropical forests, palm plantations
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America
Host Plantscoconut palm, oil palm, other Arecaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, feeding on palm leaves and can cause significant damage to plantations. They pupate on the host plant or nearby vegetation, eventually emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the dull brown underside with distinct eyespots on both fore and hindwings, and the contrasting orange-patterned head and thorax. Its strong association with palm trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
This medium-sized butterfly displays dull brown undersides with a prominent ocellus on the forewing and a smaller one on the hindwing. Its head and thorax are dark, adorned with striking orange markings.
