Butterflies of
the Amazon and Andes
Leada Spreadwing
Carrhenes leada
BUTLER, 1870
Family - HESPERIIDAE
subfamily -
PYRGINAE
Tribe - PYRGINI
Carrhenes leada,
Satipo, Peru
Introduction
The
tribe Pyrgini
are found
throughout the world in all habitats. In the neotropical region there no less
than 83 genera, and about 540 described species.
The genus
Carrhenes comprises of 13 known species which are variously distributed
from Mexico to Bolivia. They vary greatly in appearance -
bamba is marbled in contrasting white and earthy
brown tones, but others such as
fuscescens, callipetes
and santes are more unicolorous.
Carrhenes
leada is distributed from Venezuela to Peru.
Habitats
This species is found in disturbed areas of rainforest, including small
clearings, riverbanks, rocky streams, roadsides and other forest edge habitats.
It occurs at altitudes between about 200-800m.
Lifecycle
Unknown, but
Pyrgine butterflies typically lay their eggs singly on either
the upperside or underside of leaves. The larvae are usually
dull green or brownish, with thin longitudinal lines along the
back and sides, and with dark shiny heads. Most feed on low
growing herbaceous plants, but some feed on the
leaves of bushes or trees. The pupae are usually dark and
smooth, with the wing cases in a contrasting tone or colour.
They are formed within silken tents formed by spinning
together the leaves of the foodplant.
Adult behaviour
Males are
often seen basking on rocks or low foliage in early morning or
late afternoon.
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