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Caria mantinea
The genus Caria, in the family Riodinidae, contains some of the most beautiful and elusive species on Earth. They are rarely seen because of their superb camouflage, usually settling on mossy or algae covered ground. I can't convey the excitement I experienced when I first saw one of these glittering beauties. They are incredibly fast flying, virtually impossible for me to follow with my eyes.
Usually seen near a pebbly 'beach' beside a stream in primary rainforest at altitudes between about 100-1000m.
5 Comments
thanks Karen, and the eye was good, just to be able to see them !
I'm glad you like them Felix. I am happy to be able to show them here on PN. This was the first time I had seen them also. Very lucky find 1
Stunning, it looks like it came from a fairytale :)
Lovely, Pam. As usual you have a great eye
Those butterflies are amazingly beautiful! This is the first time I've seen any of them. Thanks for sharing.