In one of the few areas the Pyro indians (Pemon) had not eradicated the forest by fire, I saw this incredible butterfly by the side of the road. I got one shot before it took off.
The forested areas, and those around the streams in particular, have a rich diversity of butterflies. Unfortunately I did not have the time to explore or photograph them – I had to choose and focused on flora and landscape mainly. Perhaps I will return to explore more of the insects at a later time.
Last updated on 20 December 2010
This is Chorinea octauius (= faunus) (Riodinidae). It’s a stunning butterfly which is rarely seen. When it flies it’s impossible to tell it’s a butterfly – it beats it’s transparent wings so fast they become a blur, but the red patches remain visible – and so it looks more like a bee or a fly! What is not obvious in the photo is that at certain angles the transparent areas have a beautiful blue reflection, reminding the observer of the similar effect seen on the surface of soap bubbles!
Many thanks Neild! Name updated 🙂
Finally knowing the name a species opens up all the doors to what is unique about it. I just had a visual glimpse, but now I can search and find out so much more about this incredible insect.
[…] a Swordtail, but no species name. Then we substituted Swordtail for Swallowtail and we found Morton Ross’ website and a lovely photo identified as the Octauius Swordtail, Chorinea octauius. Armed with a […]