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Owl-Butterflies of Zihuatanejo

GENUS OPSIPHANES 

The genus Opsiphanes is a group of large, robust butterflies within the family Nymphalidae. Distributed from Mexico through Central America and across much of tropical South America, Opsiphanes butterflies inhabit rainforests, forest edges, plantations, and secondary woodlands. They have prominent eyespots on the undersides of their wings, which resemble the eyes of owls and help deter predators. The upper wing surfaces are typically shades of orange, yellow, brown, and black, while the undersides are intricately patterned with browns and greys that provide excellent camouflage among dead leaves and tree trunks. Unlike many butterflies, adults are most active during dawn, dusk, and overcast conditions.

BRASSOLINI - OWL-BUTTERFLIES - SPECIES
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