Sturnula Metalmark
Common NameSturnula Metalmark
Scientific NameSturnula sturnula
FamilyRiodinidae
SubfamilyRiodininae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, pale blue, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to Brazil
Host PlantsVarious tropical forest plants (e.g., Miconia species)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae typically feed on the leaves of host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark brown ground color contrasted with bright white to pale blue patches, especially the large, somewhat iridescent patch on the hindwing, and the orange markings on the hindwing base.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings adorned with prominent white to pale blue patches on both forewings and hindwings, and a distinctive orange band on the hindwings near the body.
