Zaretis itys


Zaretis itys, the skeletonized leafwing or leaf wing butterfly, is a Neotropical nymphalid butterfly genus in the subfamily Charaxinae.

Subspecies

Description

Zaretis itys has a wingspan of about. The upperside of both wings is dull orange. The underside of the wings simulates dried leaves in colour and pattern. The ground colour is usually earthy brown.

Biology

Caterpillars feed on leaves of Casearia and Laetia species. They usually bind their droppings together with silk as protection from ants.

Distribution

This species can be found from Mexico to the Guyanas, Paraguay, Suriname and Brazil.