Morpho Cypris

Although not considered endangered, this Morpho species is relatively rare in collections. As it flies along river beds in its native rainforest habitat and sunlight hits its wings, the ethereal, iridescent blue of the male blazes like a flashing mirror. The females, much less commonly seen, occur in two color forms: one reflective blue, the other muted yellow, tan and brown. The caterpillars are covered with yellow and red hairs, and eat the leaves of trees in the legume family. Morpho cypris is found from Nicaragua to Ecuador.