Green-banded Urania
Common NameGreen-banded Urania
Scientific NameUrania leilus
FamilyUraniidae
SubfamilyUraniinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, green, blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeSouth America (Amazon basin, including Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia)
Host PlantsOmphalea diandra, Omphalea triandra
Flight PeriodYear-round, with peak migratory periods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are brightly colored and feed on toxic *Omphalea* plants, sequestering the toxins. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and adults are diurnal and known for their migratory flights.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, striking iridescent black and green striped pattern, and the long, swallowtail-like tails on its hindwings. Often mistaken for a butterfly due to its diurnal activity and vibrant coloration.
Description
A large, day-flying moth with iridescent black wings boldly marked with brilliant green to blue-green transverse bands. The hindwings feature a scalloped edge and prominent tails.
