(Mission, TX) The 'Stinky Leafwing' or Orion Cecropian, as it is properly named, was photographed at the National Butterfly Center, in Mission, Texas, on Sunday, September 10, 2012. This is only the fourth documented sighting of this species in the United States—and the second occurrence at the Center.

This tropical butterfly is a strong and solitary flier, with a large wingspan of approximately 11 centimeters. Common to the West Indies, South & Central America, the Orion Cecropian prefers forested habitats such as the deciduous woodlands of Costa Rica, the rainforests of the Amazonian jungle, and the cloud forests near the base of the Andes Mountains. 'Stinky' in the Orion's nickname most likely refers to the putrid or rotting fruit on which it feeds. In fact, both times the Orion Cecropian has been seen at the National Butterfly Center, we have had fermenting bait, known as "butterfly brew", at stations throughout the gardens and along the humid, sheltering Hackberry Trail.

This is the third documented sighting of the Orion Cecropian, scientific name is Historis Odius, in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. At rest, this Orion's velvety, dark brown underside provides excellent camouflage in the trees, but a bright flash of orange may be seen when it opens. The orange bands protect the butterfly by warning would-be predators that it may be poisonous, as orange coloration is often an indicator of toxicity in butterflies.

PHOTO CREDIT: Found by Dottie Lamolinara and photographed by Bill Supulski

The National Butterfly Center is committed to 'Growing Connections' between people, plants, and the winged wonders that pollinate and propagate all that grows around us. We do this through educational and environmental initiatives that cultivating meaningful understanding of the parties and processes that create beneficial and sustainable ecosystems. The Center is open to the public, for visitors and members, seven days/week.

To learn more about the National Butterfly Center, and how you can join us, please visit www.nationalbutterflycenter.org, or call 956.583.5400. Your annual membership or charitable gift impacts the beauty of our community and helps preserve the biologically diverse, natural treasures of deep South Texas.