Turquoise Cracker
Common NameTurquoise Cracker
Scientific NameHamadryas feronia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsblue, black, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, South America (Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina)
Host PlantsDalechampia scandens, Dalechampia triphylla
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants of the genus Dalechampia. The larvae are spiny and feed on the leaves, while the pupae are typically cryptic, resembling a dead leaf or twig.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent blue and black intricate pattern with white hindwing patches. Its characteristic behavior of perching head-down on tree trunks and the 'cracking' sound it makes are key identifiers.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly featuring intricate iridescent blue and black patterns on its forewings, complemented by prominent white patches on the hindwings, often seen perched head-down on tree trunks.
