Speckled Lantyrn

Small in stature, the nocturnal lantyrns inhabit deep caverns across midwestern North America. Generations of living below ground have rendered their eyes completely blind; they rely on sensitive antennae that pick up vibrations from wingbeats and echos to avoid hitting walls and each other. Two layers of ball-jointed wings allow them to change direction at a moment’s notice. The top wings feature a speckled bioluminescent pattern that mimics glowworms when perched on the cave walls. Sticky pads on their feet allow them to cling and move across the rocky ceilings. The bottom wings are fully bioluminescent to attract insects while flying. Some have been seen hovering over the water to catch small minnows. A cave with a well-established colony appears to be fully lit from the sheer number of lantyrns covering the walls. When startled, the entire colony takes off, creating a blinding swirl of lights to disorient predators.