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Yellow-edged giant owl

Yellow-edged giant owl

Caligo atreus

A species of Owl butterflies, Also known as Giant owl moth

The yellow-edged giant owl (Caligo atreus) is a beautiful insect that earns its name with the yellow edging along with its wings. While it mostly feeds on rotting fruit juices, this insect is considered to be a pest wherever bananas are grown. Work is being done to find a biological control agent for this issue.

General Info About Yellow-edged giant owl
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Attributes of Yellow-edged giant owl
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Yellow-edged giant owl is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Yellow-edged giant owl is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Yellow-edged giant owl feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Yellow-edged giant owl
It can be found from Mexico to Peru.
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Adult Size of Yellow-edged giant owl
14 - 16 cm
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Predators of Yellow-edged giant owl Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitoid wasps, ants
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Predators of Adult Yellow-edged giant owl
Birds, spiders, mammals, reptiles
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Interesting Facts About Yellow-edged giant owl
When threatened, yellow-edged giant owl can emit a strong odor to dissuade predators, a rare chemical defense among butterflies.
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Scientific Classification of Yellow-edged giant owl
Tips for Finding Yellow-edged giant owl
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Youth Habitat of Yellow-edged giant owl
Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Yellow-edged giant owl Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of yellow-edged giant owl are typically found on the underside of host plant leaves in tropical rainforests. Caterpillars prefer the dense, moisture-rich lower canopy for their vegetation-based diet, often on banana or Heliconia plants. Pupae may be observed hanging on the underside of leaves or on tree trunks in somewhat protected places, awaiting their transformation. Adults generally inhabit the lower to mid-story of the tropical rainforests where they can easily find nectar sources. To observe these stages, one must thoroughly inspect the appropriate foliage, trees, and flowers at the right vertical stratification within their habitat.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Yellow-edged giant owl
The best time to find yellow-edged giant owl would typically be during the day when temperatures are warmer, as this is when butterflies are most active. However, yellow-edged giant owl may also be active during dusk or dawn in some instances.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Yellow-edged giant owl
Calm, sunny, and warm weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding yellow-edged giant owl since they prefer flying and feeding under these conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Yellow-edged giant owl at Different Life Stages
Egg Yellow-edged giant owl eggs are generally laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, examine host plants carefully, looking at the undersides of leaves for small clusters of eggs.
Larva Yellow-edged giant owl caterpillars can be found on or near their host plants. Look for chewed leaves and frass (caterpillar droppings) to signal their presence.
Pupal Yellow-edged giant owl chrysalides are often hidden away from predators. They might be found on plant stems, under leaves, or in other sheltered places. Searching near the host plants can increase the chances of finding them.
Adult Yellow-edged giant owl adults can be spotted feeding on nectar from flowers or soaking up minerals from wet patches of soil or sand. Walking slowly through yellow-edged giant owl habitats, especially flowering gardens or clearings in forests, can help locate them.
Are Yellow-edged giant owl harmful?
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Usually, the yellow-edged giant owl won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Yellow-edged giant owl harmful to humans?

Some larvae of tortoiseshell butterflies feed on milkweed, which is a poisonous plant containing cardiac glycosides, so the larvae are poisonous. Although poisonous, these butterflies will not directly affect humans if not swallowed. Touching the larvae of certain tortoiseshell butterflies may cause a rash.
Beneficial Effects of Yellow-edged giant owl
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Fruit Trees
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Yellow-edged giant owl is a known pollinator, often seen flitting from flower to flower. Attracted by the bright colors and intricate shapes of blooms, it feeds on the pollen for nourishment. While it savors the nutrients within the stamens, pollen grains stick to its body and are inadvertently transferred to other flowers, aiding in cross-pollination.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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