Siderone (Anaea) species

There are only 2 species in this genus. They are fast and strong flyers , with cryptically patterned underwings that resemble dead leaves.

They are found in evergreen and decidious forests at 0-1000m elevation

The larvae eat Zuelania and Casearia plants

They are distributed from Mexico to Brazil , with 5 subspecies of galanthis and 3 syntyche

The bright red patches are easily visible to birds , but when attacked the butterflies land and close their wings so only the leaf pattern is seen . This confuses the bird which is still looking for a bright red butterfly.

Siderone galanthis

siderone galanthis

The red striped scarlet leafwing

Peru

W

M A1 £ 15

siderone galanthis verso

Siderone galanthis verso

Siderone syntyche mars

siderone syntyche mars

The red patched leafwing

Peru

w

m A1 £15

siderone syntyche mars verso

Siderone syntyche verso