Oileus Owl-Butterfly
Common NameOileus Owl-Butterfly
Scientific NameCaligo oileus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyMorphinae
Wingspan (mm)115
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, cream
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, plantations
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsMusa, Heliconia, Calathea, Erythrina
Flight PeriodYear-round (in tropical climates)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, often striped, and feed on monocotyledonous plants. Pupae are typically stout and suspended, often resembling a dried leaf.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its large size, crepuscular flight habits (active at dawn and dusk), and the very large, distinct owl-like eyespot on the underside of the hindwings. The overall cryptic brown and tan coloration of the underside is also characteristic.
Description
A large, cryptically colored butterfly with a prominent, large black and yellow eyespot on the underside of each hindwing, resembling an owl's eye. The rest of the underside is mottled brown, tan, and cream, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
