A recent volcano eruption in Ecuador destroyed the farms which supply these beautiful creatures, so we are working with the villagers to teach them to raise butterflies to replenish the population. You'll be amazed at the spectacular deep-blue color on top contrasted with iridescent green on bottom. Females differ from males by the black borders on the wings and a brick-red patch on the hindwing. The Thecla uses the concept of mimicry, which is the ability to imitate something other than what you are. When it is at rest, it will rub the hind wings together giving an appearance of an eye and antenna, because of the spot on the underside hindwing and its tails. A predator will be tricked into thinking the attack is at the head, when in fact it is at the tail, allowing Thecla to escape. This butterfly is misclassified in scientific name. It is actually in the genus Lycaenid but was originally classified in Thecla and never changed. If you feel out of place at times, this bug's for you! 2"x 2" in a 5"x 6" frame. |
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