Common Mestra
Common NameCommon Mestra
Scientific NameMestra amymone
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorswhite, grey, brown, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsTragia, Dalechampia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropics; March to November in warmer US regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny and feed on Euphorbiaceae, pupating into a suspended chrysalis.
Identification TipsLook for the unique combination of pale forewings with dark brown borders and a prominent orange band on the hindwings. The brown bar on the forewing is also a key identifier.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by pale whitish-grey forewings with dark brown margins, and a striking orange band along the hindwing margin. A distinct brown bar is present on the forewing.
