Dirce Beauty
Common NameDirce Beauty
Scientific NameColobura dirce
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, orange, brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico through Central America and much of South America, occasionally straying into southern Texas or Florida
Host PlantsCecropia obtusifolia, Cecropia peltata
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on *Cecropia* leaves. Pupae are camouflaged, resembling a twig or dead leaf.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark upperside with a bright median band, and the highly camouflaged underside with its bark-like pattern and often visible '88' or 'figure-eight' markings on the hindwings. Often perches head-down on tree trunks.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a dark upperside featuring a prominent yellow or orange median band, and a remarkably cryptic underside patterned to resemble tree bark, often with a distinctive '88' marking.
