Hewitson's Olivewing
Common NameHewitson's Olivewing
Scientific NameOpsiphanes cassina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBrassolinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, plantations
Geographic RangeCentral America to northern South America (Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsCocos nucifera, Elaeis guineensis, Attalea butyracea, other Arecaceae palms
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with a horned head capsule, feeding on palm leaves. Pupae are also green and resemble a leaf, hanging upside down.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright green, leaf-like underside with characteristic wavy brown lines and small, often ringed, ocelli. The upperside (not visible in this image) typically features a dark brown ground color with a prominent orange band.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking leaf-like green underside, marked with wavy brown lines and small ocelli, providing excellent camouflage.
