Butterflies of Zihuatanejo

SUPERFAMILY PAPILIONOIDEA

-Emesis poeas

Emesis poeas is a distinctive butterfly in the family Riodinidae. The upper side of the wings is typically orange to reddish-orange with dark brown or black bands, creating a strong, contrasting pattern compared to many more finely lined Emesis species. This species is found in Mexico, Central America, and into parts of South America, inhabiting forest edges, clearings, and open or brushy areas. Adults often fly low and slowly, frequently perching on leaves or the ground and returning to the same locations.

Diet

Adults are frequently associated with small, nectar-rich flowers.
Like other metalmarks, adults may also obtain nutrients from damp soil and other mineral-rich sources.

Range

The Thorn-scrub Emesis is a Mexican species, occurring principally in western and southern Mexico.
It is well within its natural range in the Zihua area, where it is associated with warm woodland and scrub habitats.

Habitat

It occurs in tropical dry forest, thorn scrub, woodland edges, clearings, and secondary vegetation, generally in warm areas with abundant flowering plants.
In western Mexico it can occur from near sea level to considerably higher elevations; Mexican observations have extended to approximately 2,200 m.
Around Zihua, sunny openings and flowering vegetation within dry forest and thorn-scrub habitat are likely places to encounter it.

Description

A small to medium-sized metalmark with a wingspan of approximately 30–40 mm.
The wings are predominantly reddish brown to orange-brown, with alternating darker and paler bands that give the butterfly a somewhat subdued, earthy appearance.
The wings are relatively rounded, particularly in females, and lack the prominent metallic streaks found in several related Emesis species. Instead, the pale bands can have a grayish or silvery appearance.
The underside is generally more muted, with brown, orange, and grayish markings.
Its rounded wings and broad grayish bands are useful characteristics for separating it from some other Mexican Emesis.