Pear-winged Leafwing Butterfly
Common NamePear-winged Leafwing Butterfly
Scientific NameHypna clytemnestra
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America to South America (Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsCroton species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, pupae resemble a chrysalis, and adults emerge to feed on nectar, rotting fruit, or sap.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the unique pear-shaped forewing tip and the highly convincing dead-leaf mimicry on the underside of the wings when at rest.
Description
This butterfly exhibits remarkable dead-leaf mimicry on its underside, featuring a mottled brown and tan coloration with prominent vein patterns and a distinctive pear-shaped forewing apex.
