The family of Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae) is one of the largest butterfly families and includes the True Brushfoots (Nymphalinae), Admirals and relatives (Limenitidinae), Satyrs and Wood-nymphs (Satyrinae), Milkweed Butterflies (Danainae), Longwings (Heliconiinae), and the Emperors (Apaturinae). They are generally butterflies with a wingspan of 25 to 130 mm. Wing shape is highly variable: some species have irregular margins (anglewings and commas), and others have long taillike projections (Daggerwings). Brown, oranges, yellows, and blacks are frequent colors, while iridescent colors such as purples and blues are rare. Characteristic is the way of flying in which they keep the wings straight next to their body after each wing beat for a short gliding flight. The front two legs are smaller than the others, unable to be used for walking, and serve as cleaning tools for their body parts. Adult feeding behavior depends on the species. Some species primarily seek flower nectar while others only feed on sap flows, rotting fruit, dung, or animal carcasses.
