Animals A-Z

Great Owl Butterfly

Great Owl Butterfly

Scientific Name : Caligo memnon

Status : Not Evaluated (IUCN)

On view at Aquarium in : Butterfly Oasis

The great owl butterfly is a large and striking species native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Named for the prominent eye-like patterns on its wings that resemble the eyes of an owl, these butterflies use this unique feature as a defense mechanism to deter predators. With their slow, graceful flight and impressive wingspan, they are a remarkable sight in their natural habitat.

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  • Defensive Eye Spots: The large, eye-like patterns on the ventral side of the wings help protect the great owl butterfly from predators. When threatened, they open their wings to reveal these spots, startling or confusing predators and allowing the butterfly to escape.
  • Nocturnal Behaviour: Unlike most butterflies, the great owl butterfly is most active during the early evening and dusk. This nocturnal behaviour helps them avoid many of the predators that hunt during the day.
  • Camouflage Experts: When resting with their wings closed, great owl butterflies blend into their surroundings, resembling tree bark or a dry leaf. This camouflage helps them stay hidden from potential threats.
  • Ancient Connections: Smithsonian scientists discovered that the great owl butterfly’s eyespots resemble those of a now-extinct insect from the Mesozoic Era. Known as Kalligrammatid lacewings, these butterfly-like creatures fluttered through the woodlands over 120 million years ago, long before modern butterflies evolved. Both insects independently developed similar features, like wing eyespots and scales, through a process known as convergent evolution.

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we had a lovely experience. They allow to pet some of fishes and crabs. We really enjoyed that part. Recommended!

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August, 2024

Fabulous experience. We all loved it (2 adults and 2 kids 12+9). Really impressed with displays and loved the interactive part up close with the Skate. Definitely worth the visit and a beautiful town to visit.

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August, 2024

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August, 2024

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