Automedon Owl-Butterfly
Common NameAutomedon Owl-Butterfly
Scientific NameEryphanis automedon
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)100
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, purple, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest understory
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, South America (south to Brazil)
Host PlantsChamaedorea, Geonoma, Bactris, Cocos
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants, typically palms. Larvae are often green or brown with horned heads and a forked tail, while pupae are camouflaged.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, the distinctive cryptic underside pattern with multiple prominent eyespots (especially two on the hindwing and one on the forewing), and its crepuscular flight activity at dawn and dusk.
Description
A large, robust butterfly with a cryptic brown and tan underside featuring prominent yellow-ringed eyespots, resembling a dead leaf or an owl's eye. The upperside is typically iridescent blue or purple.
