Glasswing Butterfly
Common NameGlasswing Butterfly
Scientific NameGreta oto
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)57.5
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorstransparent, dark brown, reddish-orange
HabitatTropical rainforests, cloud forests, humid forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador (occasionally migrates to Texas)
Host PlantsCestrum species
Flight PeriodYear-round (in tropical climates)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on *Cestrum* leaves. Larvae are striped with green and purple/red, feeding on the host plant. Pupae are notable for their reflective, metallic silver or gold appearance.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the transparent wings. Look for the dark borders and the reddish-orange patch on the forewing to differentiate it from other glasswing species.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly distinguished by its almost entirely transparent wings, which are bordered by opaque dark brown or black, often with a reddish-orange patch near the forewing tip.
