Two Heliconius clysonymus share the same plant perch, but the moment is fleeting. While one remains poised, the other soars, wings fully open, frozen for a brief moment by the lens. The contrast between stability and movement gives the scene an ethereal intensity, as if the flight were beginning before our eyes.

With its black wings marked with broad yellow bands, sometimes tinged with orange depending on the subspecies, Heliconius clysonymus displays a clear warning pattern, typical of toxic species. Like many Heliconius, it participates in Müllerian mimicry circles, sharing its colors with other species that are also unappealing to predators.

This butterfly, native to the humid forests of Central and South America, favors shaded spaces and undergrowth. Its flight is slow, almost floating, which paradoxically makes it difficult to photograph when its wings are fully open. Here, this frozen takeoff reveals the perfect symmetry and silky structure of its wingspan.

A rare image capturing the beauty of movement and the defensive complexity of a butterfly that, although discreet, masters the art of making itself seen to avoid being eaten.