Morpho achilles, Achilles Morpho

The Achilles Morpho is one of 29 different species of morpho butterflies found in South America. The vibrant blue markings on the wings, combined with a slow, bouncing flight pattern creates a flashing effect that makes it difficult for predators like birds to follow. If attacked while flying, the Achilles Morpho begins rapid evasive swooping and then settles, closing its wings and showing only the dark brown underside. This makes it more likely for predators to miss the butterfly as they are still searching for the bright blue flashing pattern associated with the flight of the insect.