Gray Cracker
Common NameGray Cracker
Scientific NameHamadryas februa
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, white, brown, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, riparian areas
Geographic RangeSouthern North America (southern Texas, Arizona), Central America, South America (south to Argentina)
Host PlantsDalechampia scandens, Dalechampia triphylla
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; spring to fall in northern parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny and camouflaged, feeding on Dalechampia species. Pupae are also cryptic, resembling dead leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsIdentified by its distinctive mottled gray-brown pattern with wavy lines and hindwing eyespots. Known for its characteristic 'cracking' sound made by males during flight and its habit of perching head-down on tree trunks.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with mottled gray, white, and brown wings featuring intricate wavy patterns and several prominent eyespots on the hindwings, providing excellent camouflage.
