Family Nymphalidae, Subfamily Ithomiinae : Clear winged butterflies
Geographic distribution: Neotropical
Diet: Nectar, bird poop (for protein)
Predators: ?
Other: There are many species of clear winged butterflies, with a wide range of coloration and patterning. However, the general trend is that butterflies that occupy lower levels of the understory are more clear that those that live in the canopy. They are toxic, because of alkaloids from the nectar they drink. Males pass alkaloids to females when they mate. Males use these alkaloids to make a perfume that attracts females. The female will place alkaloids in her egg shells, so that they are protected from predation. They often play dead as a predator defense.
(Photos do not belong to me)
