Orion Cecropian
Common NameOrion Cecropian
Scientific NameHistoris odius
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, tan
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern North America (e.g., southern Texas, Florida), Central America, South America (Mexico to Argentina)
Host PlantsCecropia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods, typically late spring to fall in more temperate parts of its range
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and feed on *Cecropia* species. Pupae are also cryptic, resembling dead leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the highly cryptic, dead-leaf-like underside, especially the jagged hindwing margin and the prominent 'veins' that enhance its camouflage.
Description
A medium to large butterfly known for its remarkable dead-leaf mimicry on the underside, featuring shades of brown, tan, and dark brown wavy lines, and distinctly jagged wing margins.
