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Owl Butterfly

Owl Butterfly

Owl Butterfly

(Caligo butterfly)

Owl Butterfly
Owl Butterfly (Caligo butterfly)

Owl Butterfly Facts

Primarily seen in rainforests and secondary forests throughout Mexico, Central America and South America.

Wingspans can be 13- 18 centimeters (5-7 inches) making it one of the largest butterflies in the world.

Usually seen with the wings closed displaying a single eye spot, resting on side of a tree or branch.The “eyespot” on the hindwing is the most conspicuous identification featured.

One theory is that the eyespot resembles an owl’s eye and therefore be a potential predator to any smaller predator for fear they may be captured by some large eyed predator.

Owl Butterfly
(Caligo butterfly) Owl Butterfly

Another theory is the pattern on the wings resemble the head of a predator like a lizard.

Another theory is the eyespot tricks the predators into attacking the eyespot rather than the real body of the butterfly.

Provides a target away from their body. They can escape an attack with part of wing damaged.

They are most active at dawn and dusk.

Owl Butterfly
Owl Butterfly (Caligo butterfly)
Owl Butterfly
(Caligo butterfly) Owl Butterfly

Owl Butterfly

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