Dingy Purplewing
Common NameDingy Purplewing
Scientific NameEunica monima
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsbrown, gold, purple, blue
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas), Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, South America
Host PlantsCroton species (Euphorbiaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropics; spring to fall in temperate zones
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green with spines, feeding on Croton species. Pupae are often green or brown, camouflaged.
Identification TipsIdentify by the dull brown/golden underside with iridescent purple sheen, distinct blue-centered eyespots, and characteristic yellow-tipped antennae.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with cryptic brown and golden-brown undersides, featuring iridescent purple patches and several small, blue-centered eyespots. Its antennae are black with distinctive yellow tips.
