Junonia coenia
WINGSPAN 4 to 7.5cm (1⅝ to 3in)
HABITAT Open landscapes, fields, roadsides, gardens, parks
DISTRIBUTION Southern United States and Mexico
LIFESPAN Up to 10 days
MALES AND FEMALES Both sexes are similar but the female is usually larger than the male
This eye-catching American butterfly is easily recognisable for its distinctive target spots which look like eyes. It cleverly blends in with its environment depending on the time of year. In the spring and summer, when plants are new and brighter in colour, the underside of the wings is lighter and acts as camouflage. In autumn and winter, the underside turns much darker to match the landscape. Males tend to form patrols when looking for a mate, but if a female buckeye decides she’s not interested she’ll lift her abdomen into the air. To onlookers this appears as though she’s actively seeking attention, but in this position it’s impossible for him to mate with her.