Daring Owl-Butterfly
Common NameDaring Owl-Butterfly
Scientific NameCaligo memnon
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)140
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, white, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical rainforests, forest edges, plantations
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to the Amazon basin in South America
Host PlantsMusa spp. (banana), Heliconia spp., Calathea spp., Canna spp.
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; crepuscular (dawn and dusk)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, often green or brown with a forked tail and horned head capsule. Pupae are typically green or brown, resembling a leaf or twig.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, crepuscular flight, and the distinctive mottled brown underside with a white forewing band. The dorsal side features large, prominent owl-like eyespots on the hindwings.
Description
A large butterfly with a mottled brown and tan underside, featuring a prominent white band across the forewing and several small, ringed spots on the hindwing, providing excellent camouflage.
