About Caligo atreus (Kollar, 1849)
Caligo atreus, commonly known as the yellow-edged giant owl, is a butterfly species belonging to the family Nymphalidae. This species ranges from Mexico to Peru. Its wingspan measures between 140 and 160 mm. The larvae feed on plants from the Musa and Heliconia genera, and can become a pest for banana cultivation. Adult butterflies feed on the juices of rotting fruit. Compared to other butterfly species, C. atreus adults have a relatively long lifespan, which can reach 3 to 4 or more months. Adults move slowly, and are frequently attacked by birds. For most of the day, adult males stay inactive, only becoming active for an hour around 6 AM and 6 PM. The chrysalis mimics dead leaves, and is marked with shiny gold spots. This life stage lasts approximately 22 days before the adult butterfly emerges. Due to their relative ease of breeding, this species is common in butterfly houses.
