Eucheira socialis, commonly known as the Mexican Social Butterfly, is a fascinating species endemic to the highland regions of Mexico, particularly in the Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental mountain ranges. This butterfly belongs to the family Pieridae and is the only species in the monotypic genus *Eucheira*. One of its most distinctive traits is its **social behavior during the larval stage**—unlike most butterflies, its caterpillars live communally in large silken nests spun on the host plant, usually *Robinia* species (locust trees). These nests are maintained and expanded as the caterpillars grow, offering protection and warmth in the cool mountain environment.
The adult butterflies are delicate and white, with soft gray or black markings, resembling other members of the Pieridae family but with a slightly more translucent appearance. Their emergence is seasonal, typically aligned with the early rainy season. While the adults are relatively solitary, the **gregarious nature of the larvae** makes this species unique among butterflies. Their synchronized development and collective lifestyle have fascinated entomologists for decades. Due to their restricted range and ecological specificity, *Eucheira socialis* is considered a species of interest in conservation and ecological studies.
We firmly support the sustainable tropical butterfly collections as long as they take care of conserving the rainforest where they fly and developing responsible conscious trading.
This allows us to support local ranching farms with ethically sourced material and help at the same time collectors and enthusiasts to contribute to understanding and treasuring those species.
Please consider that the specimen you will receive may slightly differ in size, shape or colour from the picture shown as you are purchasing a natural product.
All our items are carefully delivered to prevent damages on transport, papered items are packaged in glassine envelopes specifying capture/breeding data and location available. CITES certificate will be provided in the specimens required.
HOW WE GRADE OUR LISTINGS (SPECIMENS)
As Insect specimens are natural products, some are bred and some others caught in wild, the quality can vary greatly.
The guide below explains the grading used for specimens in our listings.
A1 No visible imperfections, both antennas, no tearing, scratches or missing part of the wings (or as perfect as you could expect from wild caught specimens), with exception of some leg damage.
A1- Very minor damage, normally restricted to antenna damage or antennae attached separately in the envelope.
A- These specimens have minor damage, such as antenna damage, or minor flight wear such as small scratches, minor sale damage, some minor fraying/chipping around the edges of the wings.
A2 More significant damage, such as major flight wear, small rips, small pieces missing from the wings, damage to the thorax or abdomen.
B or Second Grade These specimens have similar damage to A2 specimens, but to a more significant degree. Usually used as parts replacement or art work material
| SPECIMEN | |
|---|---|
| Country | Mexico |
| Locality | Iguala Guerrero |
| Collection type | Wild collected |
| Bio-zone | Neotropical |
We supply both rare and common species from all parts of the world.
• Entomology • Photography • Research • Trade • Home decor •
United States, United Kingdom and Mexico
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