Zavaleta glasswing
Common NameZavaleta glasswing
Scientific NameGreta zavaleta
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorstransparent, black, orange, yellow, white
HabitatHumid tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America (south to Panama), and northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru)
Host PlantsCestrum (Solanaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on toxic plants from the Solanaceae family, accumulating defensive compounds that make both caterpillars and adults unpalatable to predators. The pupa is often metallic and reflective.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the extensive wing transparency, the specific pattern of orange-brown borders and dark veins, the light green/yellow opaque patches, and the white spots on the hindwing. The antennae typically have yellow tips.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly characterized by its largely transparent wings, which are outlined with dark veins and prominent orange-brown borders. It features opaque patches of light green or yellow on both forewings and hindwings, along with distinct white spots along the hindwing margin.
