2. 1,251 species of
butterfly can be found in
Costa Rica
That’s about 10% of the
world’s butterfly species
One reason for this biodiversity:
Millions of years ago, Costa Rica and Panama formed a bridge
between North & South America, so plants and animal species
were able to spread between the continents.

3. Blue Morpho Butterfly
(Morpho peleides)
The top side of the wings is a
bright blue; however, the
underside is a dull brown with
‘eyespots’ to camouflage the
butterfly from predators.
Erato Heliconian
(Heliconius erato)
Also known as the Red Postman, these
butterflies vary greatly in color and
roost in groups at night.

4. Monarch Butterfly
(Danaus plexippus)
Starting in August, these butterflies
make a massive migration to
southern California and Mexico for
the winter.
Salome Yellow
(Eurema salome)
These butterflies fly low to the
ground and are often found along
the roadside. There are 6
subspecies of Eurema salome,
distinguished by the black markings
on the wings.

5. Eggs are usually deposited For 10-60 days, the
on plants. This is the most larvae grows, shedding
vulnerable stage for the it’s skin up to 6 times.
butterfly.

6. In the last stage of molting, Hatching from the chrysalis
larvae hang themselves takes about a day. When the
from a leaf or branch to butterfly emerges, it will live
form a chrysalis. for around 3 weeks.

7. Costa Rica has an abundance of
butterflies, some species of which
thrive in certain elevations.
They help to pollinate Costa Rica’s
many plants and make the forests
beautiful.