[7] This may be because red and yellow colors are linked with prey that are capable of utilizing chemical defenses, such as ladybugs, and may be harmful if consumed by predators.

[9][10][13] Sexual selection favors the distinct coloration and morphologies found in males and drives the diversification of this species from others in the genus.

[13] H. pyrrithrix males use multimodal displays[9][11][14] when courting females, including complex movements, vibrations, and signals on top of their distinct coloration.

[9][11] During their complex courtship displays, male H. pyrrithrix approaches females with zig-zag movements and waving legs while closing the distance between them.

[13][14] The combination of visual and substrate-borne displays increases male reproductive success and decreases cannibalism by unimpressed females.

[16] Accompanied by their bright coloration, this increased movement in open habitats places males at a higher risk of gaining predator attention.

[16] H. pyrrithrix males display these dorsal patterns in addition to leg-waving to mimic the antennas of wasps or bees and deceive predators.

[16] The higher rates of movement in males versus females preserve the evolution of cryptic dorsal coloration in both individuals.