CALIGO ATREUS butterfly in frame

The Caligo atreus, also known as the ‘owl butterfly’ for the eye-shaped patterns on the underside of its wings, is a giant of the Peruvian rainforests. Here, its outstretched wings reveal these fascinating patterns, which are used to fool predators. On their upper surface, hidden in this display, deep blue and bright yellow shades contrast with the sobriety of their camouflage.
The caterpillars of this butterfly feed mainly on Heliconia, tropical plants with exotic flowers similar to banana trees. Their greed makes this butterfly a sometimes unwelcome visitor to banana plantations!
This specimen is presented in an observation frame with a magnifying glass for precise observation.