Pearly Leafwing
Common NamePearly Leafwing
Scientific NameHypna clytemnestra
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorspale yellow, dark brown, orange-brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsCroton species
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green and camouflaged, feeding on Croton species. Pupae are also cryptic, resembling dead leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive pale yellow patch on the dark forewings and the orange-brown hindwings dorsally. When at rest with wings closed, the underside strongly mimics a dead leaf, complete with angular, tailed hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with angular wings. The dorsal forewings are dark brown with a large, prominent pale yellow patch, while the hindwings are predominantly orange-brown with dark margins.
