Constable
Common NameConstable
Scientific NameDoxocopa pavon
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsblue, green, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, occasionally southern North America (e.g., Texas, Florida)
Host PlantsCeltis spp. (hackberry)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; spring to fall in temperate parts of its range
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on hackberry leaves, pupates into a chrysalis, then emerges as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey features include the brilliant iridescent blue-green upperside, a row of black spots on the hindwing, and a distinctive white or light blue zigzag pattern along the outer margins of the hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with striking iridescent blue-green wings, a dark body, and distinct black spots and white/blue markings along the wing margins.
