The glasswing butterfly (Greta oto) is a unique and beautiful species of butterfly known for its transparent wings endemic to Costa Rica and the rest of Central American countries.

Scientists have also collected examples of butterflies in Mexico and Colombia, as they move to nations surrounding the Central American area.

According to the National System of Conservation Areas, which is the public institution administrator for the nation's national parks, conservation areas, and other protected natural areas, the country has protection plans for the butterfly.

Lovers of exotic butterflies could find these specimens in protected zones such as Guanacaste National Park, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Palo Verde National Park, Carara National Park, Poás Volcano National Park, La Selva Reserve and Biological Station, Juan Castro Blanco National Park, Irazú Volcano National Park, Chirripó National Park and La Amistad International Park.

These butterflies inhabit tropical and subtropical rainforests, as well as cloud forests.

The distinctive feature of the glasswing butterfly is its transparent wings, which give it the appearance of glass. The wings are not entirely clear but have a glass-like quality due to their lack of pigmentation.

 

This transparency serves as a form of camouflage, allowing the butterfly to blend into its surroundings and avoid predators. The butterfly's body and antennae are dark-colored, providing a contrast to the transparent wings.

Glasswing butterflies have a relatively small size, with a wingspan typically ranging from 5.6 to 6.1 centimeters (2.2 to 2.4 inches). They are known for their graceful flight patterns and are often seen flying in the treetops.

These butterflies primarily feed on nectar from a variety of flowers. They are also known to feed on rotting fruit. Like many other butterfly species, they play a role in pollination, helping to fertilize plants as they move from flower to flower.

The glasswing butterfly's remarkable appearance has made it a popular subject for butterfly enthusiasts, photographers and researchers interested in understanding the mechanisms of transparency and camouflage in nature. 

These butterflies have also become popular in the butterfly trade, which has led to concerns about their conservation. 

Another fantastic species in Costa Rica is the bone breaker.  It is a bird of prey in the family Falconidae and one of the best-known in the country.

The Wild Costa Rica page is a space for readers to discover more about the fascinating species that make the Pura Vida land one of the world's countries with the richest natural diversity.

 

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What steps should Costa Rica take to prevent the trafficking of exotic species like the glasswing butterfly?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com