Uncertain Owlet
Common NameUncertain Owlet
Scientific NameEryphanis polyxena
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, blue
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Peru)
Host PlantsPalms (Arecaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically found feeding on various palm species, and adults are often crepuscular, flying at dawn and dusk.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, the distinctive cryptic dark brown underside with wavy patterns and small eyespots, and its characteristic leaf-like wing shape, especially the pointed forewing apex and hindwing tail.
Description
A large, dark brown butterfly with a cryptic, leaf-like underside pattern featuring intricate wavy lines, small ocelli, and subtle blue iridescence, often mimicking a dead leaf when at rest.
