Giant Owl Butterfly

Caligo eurilochus

These butterflies are named after the large spot on the underside of their wings that mimics an owl eye, scaring away potential predators. They are among the biggest butterflies in the world, with a wingspan stretching up to 7 inches. They are native to Central and South America in neotropical environments.

Recorded lineage

kingdomAnimaliaphylumArthropodaclassInsectaorderLepidopterafamilyNymphalidaegenusCaligospeciesCaligo eurilochus

Observed

Apr 14, 2026

Location

Machu Picchu, Peru