Smith's Pixie
Common NameSmith's Pixie
Scientific NameDynamine smithii
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, orange, red
HabitatTropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsDalechampia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike other Nymphalids, it undergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on specific host plants, typically *Dalechampia* species, before pupating and emerging as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic velvety black wings with prominent orange borders on both sets of wings, along with a few small, bright red spots on the forewings. The underside often features a more cryptic pattern.
Description
A small, striking butterfly with velvety black wings, broad orange margins on both forewings and hindwings, and distinctive small red spots on the forewings.
