Purple Owl-Butterfly
Common NamePurple Owl-Butterfly
Scientific NameCaligo eurilochus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)100
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, cream
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, plantations
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, and northern South America
Host PlantsMusa, Heliconia, Calathea, Erythrina
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly. Larvae are large, often striped, and feed on host plants like banana. Pupae are typically green or brown and suspended upside down.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, the distinctive large owl-like eyespots on the underside of the hindwings, and its crepuscular flight habit. The dorsal side can exhibit an iridescent purple sheen.
Description
A large butterfly with a cryptic brown and tan underside, featuring a prominent, large black and yellow-ringed eyespot on each hindwing, resembling an owl's eye.
