Common Butterflies of Sri Lanka
Common Butterflies of Sri Lanka
Common Butterflies of Sri Lanka
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Citation<br />
Jayasinghe, H.D. (2015). <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. Colombo, <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>:<br />
Ceylon Tea Services PLC.<br />
Text & Photographs by<br />
Himesh Jayasinghe<br />
Design and Layout by<br />
Kasun Pradeepa. Wild Studio<br />
Printed and bound<br />
Karunaratne & Sons (Pvt)Ltd.<br />
ISBN: 978-955-0081-13-4<br />
Ceylon Tea Services PLC<br />
MJF Group<br />
111, Negombo Road<br />
Peliyagoda<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
Contact<br />
info@dilmahconservation.org<br />
2015.<br />
<strong>Common</strong><br />
BUTTERFLIES<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
Himesh Dilruwan Jayasinghe
Message from the Founder<br />
Looking back on nearly three decades <strong>of</strong> Dilmah Tea, I am honoured that Dilmah<br />
has been able to play a significant role in sharing its success by supporting social<br />
and environmental development initiatives across <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. Dilmah Conservation<br />
was established as an affirmation <strong>of</strong> our commitment to protecting nature and the<br />
environment and ensuring that we leave behind a better planet for future generations.<br />
<strong>Butterflies</strong> have always been a subject <strong>of</strong> great fascination to children and adults<br />
alike due to their association with Samanala Kanda or Adam’s Peak which is <strong>of</strong> great<br />
spiritual significance to <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>ns <strong>of</strong> all faiths. The spectacle <strong>of</strong> the annual butterfly<br />
migration when thousands <strong>of</strong> butterflies fly towards Adam’s Peak in the South-Central<br />
Mountains is steeped in folklore and has captivated the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n imagination for<br />
centuries.<br />
However, I have noticed that over the years, even within our home gardens the<br />
number <strong>of</strong> butterflies has sadly diminished. Having learnt that this decline has<br />
occurred as a result <strong>of</strong> increased urbanization and the interlinked use <strong>of</strong> harmful<br />
chemicals, I wished to help create a space for conserving butterflies in the city. We<br />
have made great strides in butterfly conservation in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> by founding an urban<br />
butterfly garden at the Moratuwa MJF Centre which is home to over 50 types <strong>of</strong><br />
butterflies.<br />
I hope that this publication not only inspires a new generation <strong>of</strong> enthusiasts to<br />
undertake further study about butterflies and learn more about their intriguing<br />
habits, but also motivates readers to minimise the use <strong>of</strong> harmful chemical substances<br />
in their gardens so that local butterfly populations might flourish once again.<br />
In line with its pledge to sustainability, Dilmah will continue to strengthen its<br />
commitment to supporting conservation and accessible environmental and nature<br />
education.<br />
Merrill J. Fernando<br />
Founder – Dilmah Conservation
<strong>Common</strong><br />
BUTTERFLIES<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
Himesh Dilruwan Jayasinghe<br />
Leopard Phalanta phalantha
Foreword<br />
Preface<br />
<strong>Butterflies</strong> have been a subject <strong>of</strong> great interest to young and old alike throughout<br />
the ages and all over the world. As creatures <strong>of</strong> nature, their colorful wings and day<br />
active nature has enabled humans to observe and study them, as well as coin poems<br />
and stories and legends. As it is for most other animals and plants on this planet,<br />
butterflies today are threatened with habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation,<br />
pollution and over exploitation. <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n butterflies have had little attention paid to<br />
their ecology and conservation needs despite these serious threats to their existence<br />
in the wild. What might not be known to most people is that butterflies also play an<br />
important role in ecosystems, which would be noticed only once they disappear. Like<br />
many other species, butterflies have specific requirements <strong>of</strong> habitats and nutrition<br />
which need to be understood clearly if they are to be protected. A noticeable decline<br />
in the once flourishing <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n butterfly population indicates the need to actively<br />
undertake measures to ensure the protection <strong>of</strong> these creatures and their habitats.<br />
This book, <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>, <strong>of</strong>fers a very good introduction to<br />
butterflies for those who wish to learn more about this group by showing how to<br />
identify them in the field, main features <strong>of</strong> their lifecycle, behaviour, distribution in<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and preferred food plants. A notable feature <strong>of</strong> this very useful book is its<br />
overview <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>’s endemic butterflies. Therefore, I have no doubt that this book<br />
is a very important contribution to the study <strong>of</strong> butterflies in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and will serve<br />
as a useful and accessible guide for amateurs and enthusiasts alike.<br />
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the author Mr. Himesh Jayasinghe,<br />
a young but well known butterfly enthusiast and researcher for developing this<br />
valuable resource. It is my opinion that young people <strong>of</strong> a country who will soon<br />
grow up to become adults and therefore decision makers, need to be made aware<br />
as early as possible, that pursuit <strong>of</strong> material wealth at the expense <strong>of</strong> nature is never<br />
sustainable and will eventually lead to the downfall <strong>of</strong> all, plants, animals and humans.<br />
Dilmah Conservation through endorsement <strong>of</strong> Mr. Jayasinghe’s effort has once again<br />
demonstrated their commitment to conservation <strong>of</strong> nature in this beautiful and<br />
biodiversity rich country <strong>of</strong> ours. It is our hope that their support to ensure that<br />
specialist knowledge is made available in an accesible format to the young and old<br />
and emerging butterfly enthusiasts will not only lead to a greater interest in the study<br />
<strong>of</strong> butterflies and their habits but that it will help enhance butterfly conservation<br />
practices in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>.<br />
Since its inception in 2007, Dilmah Conservation has engaged in promoting sustainable<br />
environmental and social development initiatives geared towards supporting the<br />
preservation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>’s natural and cultural heritage. In line with its commitment<br />
to the conservation <strong>of</strong> nature and the environment, Dilmah Conservation is engaged<br />
in inland and marine conservation and habitat restoration towards ensuring the<br />
protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>’s wealth <strong>of</strong> biodiversity. Initiatives include support extended<br />
to the Udalwalawe Elephant Transit Home, the establishment <strong>of</strong> a biological corridor<br />
in Endena, Ratnapura, the discovery <strong>of</strong> new amphibian and reptile species, reef and<br />
shipwreck conservation and the conservation <strong>of</strong> wild horses in Delft Island.<br />
Dilmah Conservation’s butterfly gardens initiative is aimed at conserving butterflies<br />
and creating urban sanctuaries for learning more about these elusive, delicate<br />
creatures that have been subject to various environmental pressures. The butterfly<br />
garden at the Moratuwa MJF Centre is presently home to over 50 species <strong>of</strong> butterfly<br />
out <strong>of</strong> 245 recorded in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. It became apparent that the preservation <strong>of</strong> these<br />
creatures can be easily pursued by anyone with an interest in doing so, as their<br />
presence is <strong>of</strong>ten bound to a combination <strong>of</strong> preferred host and nectar plants.<br />
Following the success <strong>of</strong> this experience, Dilmah Conservation helped establish a<br />
butterfly garden in Royal College, Colombo and extends its support to maintaining<br />
the garden at Lady Ridgeway Hospital.<br />
Dilmah Conservation hopes that this visual guide will be useful to butterfly enthusiasts<br />
seeking to make their own home gardens more butterfly-friendly, and play a role in<br />
their conservation.<br />
Dr. Nirmalee Pallewatte<br />
Senior Lecturer, Head <strong>of</strong> Department<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Zoology, Faculty <strong>of</strong> Science<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Colombo, <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
08 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 09
Acknowledgements<br />
Contents<br />
The author wishes to thank the following people for their invaluable contributions<br />
to this field guide:<br />
Sarath Rajapakshe for the photos used in this publication for the Red helen, <strong>Common</strong><br />
Grass Yellow, <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Nymph, Baron, Great Eggfly, <strong>Common</strong> Bush Brown,<br />
Tawny Rajah, Ceylon Silverline, <strong>Common</strong> Hedge Blue, <strong>Common</strong> Pierrot, Plains Cupid,<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tiger, Ormiston’s Oak Blue, <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Cerulean and drawings <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n<br />
Indigo Royal and <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Clouded Silverline.<br />
Sarath Rajapkshe and Chamitha De Alwis, the co-authors <strong>of</strong> “A pocket Guide to the<br />
butterflies <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>”: the work done for this pocket guide allowed for the speedy<br />
completion <strong>of</strong> this publication.<br />
Dr. Michael Van der Pootern for his valuable guidance and encouragement on<br />
studying butterflies.<br />
Dr. Nirmalee Pallewatte for her valuable insight and reviewing this publication.<br />
Dilmah Conservation for providing this worthwhile opportunity towards encouraging<br />
further study on <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n butterflies.<br />
All those who share their field observations to enrich the information available on<br />
various species <strong>of</strong> butterflies.<br />
Foreward 08<br />
Preface 09<br />
Acknowledgements 10<br />
1. Introduction 13<br />
2. Life Cycle 15<br />
2.1 Egg 16<br />
2.2 Larva (caterpillar) 16<br />
2.2.1 Food 17<br />
2.2.2 Protective Mechanisms 18<br />
2.3 Pupa 18<br />
2.4 Adult Butterfly (Imago) 20<br />
2.4.1 Food 21<br />
2.4.2 Protective Mechanisms 21<br />
2.4.3 Mating 22<br />
3. <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 23<br />
3.1 List <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 23<br />
3.2 Distribution <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 29<br />
3.3 Threats to <strong>Butterflies</strong> and Their Conservation 31<br />
3.4 The Study <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> 31<br />
3.5 How to use this Book 32<br />
4. Descriptions <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> 33<br />
5. Endemic <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 134<br />
6. Larval Food Plants <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> 138<br />
References 172<br />
Index 174<br />
Scientific Names 174<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Names 175<br />
10 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 11
1. Introduction<br />
<strong>Butterflies</strong> have always been a source <strong>of</strong> great fascination to us due to their<br />
delicate, colourful wings. According to scientific classification, these insects<br />
belong to the Phylum Arthropoda, sharing the characteristics <strong>of</strong> a segmented<br />
body, jointed appendages and an external skeleton made <strong>of</strong> chitin. Crabs,<br />
lobsters, prawns, scorpions, spiders and millipedes are some other animals that<br />
belong to this phylum. <strong>Butterflies</strong> are further categorised under the Class Insecta<br />
owing to specific characteristics such as having three pairs <strong>of</strong> legs and body<br />
segments which are grouped into three main parts: head, thorax and abdomen.<br />
Insects also have a respiratory system <strong>of</strong> divided air tubes (tracheae) that are<br />
open to the surface <strong>of</strong> the body through openings known as spiracles. At the<br />
adult stage insects do not have legs attached to their abdomen but those<br />
restricted to their thorax. The aformentioned physical features are shared by<br />
butterflies and other insects such as dragonflies, beetles, bees, ants, mantises,<br />
cockroaches and mosquitoes.<br />
<strong>Butterflies</strong> and moths are further sub-categorised under the Order Lepidoptera.<br />
As such moths and butterflies have two pairs <strong>of</strong> membranous wings that are<br />
covered in broad scales together with the body and legs, and mouth parts<br />
modified to form a proboscis, an elongated tubular appendage originating<br />
from its head, which is used to feed. Other mouth parts such as mandibles<br />
are highly reduced or absent. The Order Lepidoptera comprises <strong>of</strong> 134 living<br />
families <strong>of</strong> moths and butterflies. <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n butterflies are represented across<br />
six families: Papilionidae, Pieridae, Nymphalidae, Lycaenidae and Riodinidae<br />
which are known as true butterflies and Hesperiidae which are known as skipper<br />
butterflies. All these families belong to the Superfamily Papilionoidea.<br />
4 th Instar Larva<br />
Tailed Jay Graphium agamemnon menides<br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 13
Kingdom<br />
Animalia<br />
Phylum<br />
Arthropoda<br />
1a<br />
1b<br />
Class<br />
Lepidoptera<br />
Super family<br />
Papilionoidea<br />
1c<br />
1d<br />
Families<br />
Papilionoidae Pieriddae Nymphalidae Lycaenidae Riodinidae Hesperiidae<br />
1e<br />
1f<br />
Figure 1a antennae <strong>of</strong> a<br />
butterfly ( Lycaenidae),<br />
1b antennae <strong>of</strong> a<br />
Hesperiid, 1c,1d,1e,1f<br />
antennae <strong>of</strong> moths<br />
Chart. 1 Classification <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong><br />
The most effective way to differentiate butterflies from moths is the shape <strong>of</strong><br />
their antenna. Papilionidae, Pieridae, Nymphalidae, Lycaenidae and Riodinidae<br />
butterflies have club shaped antennae tips, while those <strong>of</strong> Hesperiidae are<br />
hook shaped. These front-projecting antennae slightly vary in shape and size<br />
according to the family. While the antennae <strong>of</strong> moths can take various shapes,<br />
they never have club-shaped antennae tips. As some moths hold their antennae<br />
along their bodies these cannot always be easily observed. Moths can be<br />
further distinguished from butterflies by the numerous scales on their bodies<br />
that resemble hair, their large abdomens, and other minor features that are only<br />
visible under high magnification. While some moths have very small hind wings<br />
which are concealed at rest, the hindwing <strong>of</strong> butterflies are clearly visible.<br />
2. Life Cycle<br />
<strong>Butterflies</strong> and moths undergo a physical transformation known as complete<br />
metamorphosis. This means that they have four distint morphological stages in<br />
life: egg, larva, pupa and adult butterfly. Generally, the duration <strong>of</strong> each <strong>of</strong> these<br />
phases varies according to species and weather conditions. Variations have also<br />
been observed among different individuals hatched from the same set <strong>of</strong> eggs<br />
and it is assumed that this is related to ensuring the survival <strong>of</strong> their species.<br />
For example, during drought conditions the pupal stage tends to last longer to<br />
assure that the butterfly is able to survive after emerging.<br />
14 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 15
2.1 Egg<br />
The first stage <strong>of</strong> the butterfly life cycle is the egg, which varies in size, shape,<br />
colour and surface texture depending on the species they belong to. However,<br />
these characteristics are quite similar within distinct groups <strong>of</strong> butterflies. A<br />
butterfly egg has a distinct depression at the top with small pores within, which<br />
is called the Microphyler Pit. During fertilisation, sperm enter the egg through<br />
these pores. Once ready, the larva emerges from the egg shell by breaking<br />
through this fragile area, which generally occurs 3-4 days after the eggs are laid.<br />
Meso throrax<br />
Pro throrax<br />
Head<br />
Thorax<br />
Simple eyes 3<br />
2<br />
1<br />
Meta throrax<br />
Abdomen<br />
4 5 6 7 8 9<br />
10<br />
11<br />
12<br />
13<br />
Antenna<br />
Mandible<br />
Thoracic<br />
legs<br />
Spiracles<br />
Pro legs<br />
Pro leg<br />
Anus<br />
14<br />
2a<br />
2b 2c 2d<br />
Figure 4 structure <strong>of</strong> the larva<br />
2.2 Larva (Caterpillar)<br />
Figure 2a Papilionidae, 2b Pieridae,<br />
2c Danainae, 2d Nymphalinae<br />
Generally the larval phase lasts between 15-20 days. After coming out <strong>of</strong> the<br />
egg, the larva rids itself <strong>of</strong> its external skin about 5-6 times in a process known<br />
as moulting, growing larger with each shedding. The three groupings <strong>of</strong> their<br />
body segments are visible even at this stage. Larvae also have additional pro<br />
legs (see Figure 4 below) to maneuver the abdomen, which disappear by the<br />
time it reaches adult stage. In this larval phase it only has simple eyes, and its<br />
antennae are highly reduced. Further, unlike in the adult stage, butterfly larvae<br />
have chewing appendages which they use to feed on solid materials.<br />
2.2.1 Food<br />
The first meal <strong>of</strong> the larva is its own egg shell which contains very high<br />
nutritional value including calcium and protein. Large butterfly larvae (e.g.<br />
Family Papilionidae) devour the whole egg shell, while small butterfly larvae (e.g.<br />
Family Lycaenidae) only partially eat the shell. Some species also consume their<br />
moulted external skin.<br />
Larvae obtain most <strong>of</strong> their food from plant materials, except for a few carnivorous<br />
species such as the Ape Fly (Spalgis epeus). Butterfly larvae only feed on specific<br />
plants which contain the the nutritional and chemical components required for<br />
their growth and survival. Such species-specific plants are called ‘butterfly larval<br />
food plants’ (LFPs). Most butterfly larvae feed on immature leaves, but some feed<br />
on mature leaves, flowers, flower buds, fruits, seeds and aerial roots.<br />
Some species are able to take up toxins into their bodies from these materials<br />
and retain them throughout their life cycle as a protection mechanism as these<br />
toxins make them unpalatable to predators. This is seen among species such as<br />
the Glassy Tiger (Parantica aglea) and the <strong>Common</strong> Rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae).<br />
3a 3b 3c<br />
Figure 3. Red Helen Papilio helenus<br />
3a 1 th Instar Larva, 3b 3 rd Instar Larva, 3c 5 th Instar Larva<br />
16 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 17
2.2.2 Protective mechanisms<br />
Butterfly larvae use several methods to overcome threats from parasitoids such<br />
as wasps and predators such as birds. Parasitoids lay eggs on butterfly larvae<br />
and in turn, the parasitoid larvae devour internal parts <strong>of</strong> the the butterfly larvae.<br />
When they pupate, the butterfly larvae die. Therefore, butterfly larvae use their<br />
body shape, colour and pattern along with their habits and habitats to overcome<br />
these threats.<br />
Some species even weave a thread across its thorax for additional support to<br />
reinforce its attachment to the surface. Subsequently, it moults its skin and forms<br />
a new layer <strong>of</strong> skin which encases all its bodily appendages. This process usually<br />
occurs at night time and the new skin hardens after about an hour. This pupal<br />
stage generally lasts about 10 days. As the pupae are sedentary and have a thick,<br />
protective outer skin, threats from predators during this phase are lower. Even<br />
so, some species also adopt precautions such as camouflage and hiding within<br />
woven leaf cells (i.e. Hesperids).<br />
Many nocturnal butterfly larvae are very darkly coloured and live under leaf<br />
litter during the day (e.g. Grey Pansy Junonia atlites). Some species such as<br />
the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Rose (Pachliopta jophon) tend to live under the surface <strong>of</strong> the<br />
leaves. Those that live on the upper surface <strong>of</strong> the leaves are green in colour to<br />
camouflage themselves against their backdrop (e.g. Lemon Migrant Catopsilia<br />
pomona). Others employ vibrant colours as warning to predators (e.g. Mime<br />
Papilio clytia). Moreover, Lycaenid larvae adopt a mutually-beneficial relationship<br />
with ants. The larvae provide the ants with ‘honeydew’ in return for protection<br />
from predators such as birds and lizards, and parasitoids.<br />
Probosics<br />
Antenna<br />
Fore wing bud<br />
Spiracales<br />
Head<br />
Eye<br />
Thorax<br />
Abdomen<br />
Figure 6 structure <strong>of</strong> the pupa<br />
5a 5b 5c<br />
5d<br />
5e<br />
Figure 5. Butterfly larvae,<br />
5a Papilionidae, 5b Pieridae,<br />
5c Nymphalinae, 5d Lycaenidae,<br />
5e Hesperiidae<br />
7a 7b 7c<br />
18 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
2.3 Pupa<br />
After the larva moults for the final time, it transforms into a sedentary form<br />
known as the pupa. After completing its consumption <strong>of</strong> food, the larva rests for<br />
about a day becoming shorter than before by expelling all digested materials<br />
out <strong>of</strong> its body. It uses the last segment <strong>of</strong> its body to attach itself onto a surface.<br />
7d 7e 7f<br />
Figure 7. Butterfly pupae , 7a Papilionidae, 7b Pieridae,<br />
7c Danainae, 7d Nymphalinae, 7e Lycaenidae, 7f Hesperiidae<br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 19
2.4 Adult butterfly (Imago)<br />
Following a series <strong>of</strong> dramatic changes which takes place within the pupa, the<br />
adult butterfly is ready for emergence. The wings and other appendages <strong>of</strong> the<br />
adult butterfly become visible through the pupal case when it is ready to come<br />
out in a process which is known as eclosion. The butterfly splits open the pupal<br />
case, typically in the early hours <strong>of</strong> the morning before predators become active.<br />
Initially, the butterfly looks peculiar due to its large abdomen and shrunken<br />
wings. The butterfly is also especially vulnerable during this period as it cannot<br />
fly yet. After emerging from the pupa, it latches onto the pupal case or any<br />
other viable surface to hang down from. This position allows for the butterfly’s<br />
abdomen to deflate as its liquid contents are pumped into the veins <strong>of</strong> the<br />
wings. The butterfly then spreads its wings and the pumped liquid is solidified,<br />
giving strength to the wings. After about an hour, the butterfly is ready to fly.<br />
8<br />
7<br />
6<br />
9<br />
8<br />
7<br />
Apex<br />
5 6<br />
Cell 4 5<br />
Fore wing<br />
3 4<br />
2 3<br />
1b<br />
Inter space<br />
2<br />
1a<br />
1a<br />
7<br />
1b<br />
1b<br />
Cell 6 7<br />
5<br />
6<br />
Veins<br />
4<br />
2<br />
Hind wing<br />
3 5<br />
1a<br />
2<br />
3<br />
Anal angle<br />
Upper margin<br />
Head<br />
4<br />
Outer margin<br />
Tornus<br />
Thorax<br />
Wing bases<br />
Abdomen<br />
Note<br />
veins are numbered<br />
along the wing<br />
margin, inter spaces<br />
are numbered within<br />
the wing<br />
2.4.1 Food<br />
In its final stage the butterfly mainly seeks to breed and propagate its generation<br />
while prevailing over threats from predators. Energy from food consumed by<br />
the butterfly in its final stage is channeled towards these activities rather than<br />
for physical growth. Their food intake is entirely comprised <strong>of</strong> liquid except for<br />
tiny pollen grains that may have mixed in the nectar. While butterflies are mostly<br />
seen to feed on flower nectar, they also eagerly suck on rotting fruit, tree sap,<br />
dead animals, human sweat, bird droppings and other fecal material.<br />
Even though species have not been observed to exclusively feed on specific<br />
nectar plants, many butterflies do display a food preference. For example,<br />
the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Birdwing (Troides darsius) especially favours Mussaenda frondosa<br />
(uqiaiekao) flowers. The selection <strong>of</strong> species <strong>of</strong> flowers by butterflies depends on<br />
various parameters such as flying height, feeding behavior, the length <strong>of</strong> the<br />
proboscis <strong>of</strong> the butterfly and various differences in flowers such as the length<br />
<strong>of</strong> the corolla tube, alignment and the period <strong>of</strong> anthesis (the time for which the<br />
flower is in full bloom). <strong>Butterflies</strong> also show another feeding habit dubbed mud<br />
puddling whereby they suck on wet soil to obtain minerals. While this habit is<br />
largely restricted to males, some females that belong to species which are long<br />
distance fliers also mud puddle (e.g. <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Lesser Albatross Appias galene).<br />
2.4.2 Protective Mechanisms<br />
Even though they are sometimes brilliantly coloured, butterflies use camouflage<br />
techniques to a great extent to protect themselves against predators (e.g. <strong>Sri</strong><br />
<strong>Lanka</strong>n Blue Oakleaf Kallima philarchus). ‘Eye spots’ (Ocelli) which feature on the<br />
wings <strong>of</strong> butterflies also complement their survival in two ways. Many Nymphalid<br />
butterflies use these ‘eye spots’ to threaten predators, for these create the illusion<br />
<strong>of</strong> a large predator’s face.<br />
Antenna<br />
Compound eye<br />
Labial palp<br />
Probosics<br />
Figure 8. parts <strong>of</strong> the body <strong>of</strong> an adult butterfly<br />
Legs<br />
Spiracles<br />
Secondly, species such as Lycanids use the ‘eye spots’ to deceive predators. This<br />
spot located at the tornus (the posterior corner <strong>of</strong> the hind wing) coupled with<br />
the minute tail that resembles antennae give the misleading impression <strong>of</strong> a<br />
false head, while the butterfly’s real head remains concealed. This false head is<br />
further exaggerated by the rubbing <strong>of</strong> the butterfly’s wings, giving momentum<br />
to the false antennae. Predators attack this false head and if caught the butterfly<br />
is able to fly away leaving a part <strong>of</strong> its wing in the predator’s mouth.<br />
‘Mimicry’ is another method <strong>of</strong> deception used by butterflies for survival. These<br />
species mimic poisonous butterflies in both colouration and habits even though<br />
they are not poisonous in reality (e.g. Mimes (Papilio clytia) mimic Crows and<br />
Tigers). Usually, birds keep away from these butterflies.<br />
20 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 21
22 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
2.4.3 Mating<br />
Typically, depending on their species, males use three methods to find mates.<br />
The most common method is to search in proximity to their larval food plants as<br />
female butterflies do not stray far away from these (e.g. Tamil Yeoman Cirrochroa<br />
thais). The second is known as the ‘wait and see’ method, whereby the male perches<br />
in a place with a clear view <strong>of</strong> the surrounding area, and when another butterfly<br />
flies past, the male pursues the newcomer to seek out whether it is suited (e.g. <strong>Sri</strong><br />
<strong>Lanka</strong>n Blue Oakleaf Kallima philarchus ). The most interesting <strong>of</strong> these methods,<br />
is ‘hill topping’ which is practiced by species that have low population numbers.<br />
These butterflies climb up an isolated hill that is surrounded by plains and meet<br />
at the summit (e.g. Tawny Rajah Charaxes psaphon). This is a variation from usual<br />
butterfly migration, a phenomenon which is still not completely understood.<br />
Butterfly migration is mainly seen to follow the North-East monsoon, when<br />
large swarms <strong>of</strong> butterflies fly towards the same direction within the island. It<br />
starts in the dry zone and spreads into the wet zone and the highest hills. Some<br />
butterflies can even be seen far away from their breeding grounds during this<br />
season. Migratory species are categorised as such in the detailed species pr<strong>of</strong>iles.<br />
After a male locates a female, some species exhibit striking displays <strong>of</strong> courtship<br />
prior to mating. While the role <strong>of</strong> the male butterfly is complete after mating,<br />
the female still has the important task <strong>of</strong> finding the right larval food plant to lay<br />
its eggs. This plant searching behaviour can be recognised by an experienced<br />
butterfly enthusiast. When the butterfly has found a suitable plant, it chooses an<br />
appropriate place to lay its eggs; a location which varies according to species.<br />
Certain species lie on the ground nearby to protect eggs from parasitoids (e.g.<br />
Chocolate Soldier Junonia iphita). Eggs are attached to the surface by a sort <strong>of</strong><br />
glue that the butterfly discharges when it lays its eggs. While many butterfly<br />
species lay multiple single eggs, some others lay eggs in batches. Even though<br />
these butterflies lay a lot <strong>of</strong> eggs, only a few survive to adulthood, as many are<br />
eaten by predators and parasitoids during the course <strong>of</strong> their lifecycle.<br />
3. <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
As <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> is an island that is geographically isolated by the Indian Ocean, there<br />
is a perceived absence <strong>of</strong> migrant butterflies from other ecologically different<br />
landmasses, which is a fairly distinct feature <strong>of</strong> countries such as India and<br />
Singapore. Some species such as the Crimson Rose have been seen flying out into<br />
sea in the outskirts <strong>of</strong> the coast, even though their final destination has not yet<br />
been identified. Due to this reason, a number <strong>of</strong> butterfly species in the country<br />
do not see an annual increase, as in the case <strong>of</strong> birds. Nevertheless, two new<br />
species, the Yellow Palm Dart (Cephrenes trichopepla) and the Orange Migrant<br />
(Catopsilia scylla), were observed to have colonised the island recently. As the<br />
homelands <strong>of</strong> these species are quite far apart, it is suspected that these species<br />
found their way to <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> through the ornamental plant trade, in the import<br />
<strong>of</strong> various palm species and Cassia surattensis respectively.<br />
At present, <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> is inhabited by 246 butterfly species, 26 <strong>of</strong> which are<br />
endemic to the island.<br />
The classification <strong>of</strong> families used in this book is from the recent phylogenetic<br />
analysis conducted by van Nieukerken et. al. (2011), which merged three<br />
previously known Superfamilies <strong>of</strong> butterflies, skippers and moth butterflies<br />
into a single Superfamily: Papilionoidea. All the Papilionoidea families are<br />
represented in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>, except for Hedylidae. The arrangement <strong>of</strong> families and<br />
the species within the those families is adopted from d’Abrera (1998), since no<br />
phylogenetic sequences have been published at species level. The nomenclature<br />
<strong>of</strong> the species was adopted from van der Poorten (2014). Subsequent to a major<br />
change made in the 2012 Red Data List, the scientific name <strong>of</strong> the Beak was<br />
changed after Kawhara (2013), as it was previously identified incorrectly as<br />
Libythea celtis (Laicharting 1728) which referred to a butterfly from Southern<br />
Europe, Northwestern Africa, Southern Russia and Western India. Also the<br />
previously identified Pelopidas thrax subochracea is now classified as P. subochracea,<br />
Potanthus confuscius as P. satra, and Telicota ancilla as T. bambusae. The taxonomic<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> species is still an ongoing process and some names will be subject to<br />
change. Included also is the Tamil Oakblue (Arhopala bazaloides lanka), a species<br />
that was long thought to be extinct, which was recently re-discovered in the wet<br />
zone lowland forests <strong>of</strong> Sinharaja and Kanneliya.<br />
3.1 List <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
*Endemic species are denoted as (E)<br />
Papilionidae<br />
1 Troides darsius (Gray, [1853]) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Birdwing (E)<br />
2 Pachliopta hector (Linnaeus, 1758) Crimson Rose<br />
3 Pachliopta jophon (Gray, [1853]) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Rose (E)<br />
4 Pachliopta aristolochiae (Fabricius, 1775) <strong>Common</strong> Rose<br />
5 Papilio crino Fabricius, 1793 Banded Peacock<br />
6 Papilio demoleus Linnaeus, 1758 Lime Butterfly<br />
7 Papilio helenus Linnaeus, 1758 Red Helen<br />
8 Papilio polytes Linnaeus, 1758 <strong>Common</strong> Mormon<br />
9 Papilio polymnestor Cramer, [1775] Blue Mormon<br />
10 Papilio clytia Linnaeus, 1758 Mime<br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 23
11 Graphium sarpedon (Linnaeus, 1758) Bluebottle<br />
12 Graphium doson (C. & R. Felder, 1864) <strong>Common</strong> Jay<br />
13 Graphium agamemnon (Linnaeus, 1758) Tailed Jay<br />
14 Graphium nomius (Esper, 1785) Spot Swordtail<br />
15 Graphium antiphates (Cramer, [1775]) Five bar Swordtail<br />
Pieridae<br />
16 Leptosia nina Fabricius, 1793 Psyche<br />
17 Delias eucharis Drury, 1773 Jezebel<br />
18 Prioneris sita (C. & R. Felder, 1865) Painted Sawtooth<br />
19 Belenois aurota (Fabricius, 1793) Pioneer<br />
20 Cepora nerissa (Fabricius, 1775) <strong>Common</strong> Gull<br />
21 Cepora nadina (Lucas, 1852) Lesser Gull<br />
22 Appias indra (Moore, 1857) Plain Puffin<br />
23 Appias libythea (Fabricius, 1775) Striped Albatross<br />
24 Appias lyncida (Cramer, [1777]) Chocolate Albatross<br />
25 Appias albina (Boisduval, 1836) <strong>Common</strong> Albatross<br />
26 Appias galene (C. & R. Felder, 1865) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Lesser Albatross (E)<br />
27 Ixias marianne Cramer, 1779 White Orange Tip<br />
28 Ixias pyrene Linnaeus, 1764 Yellow Orange Tip<br />
29 Hebomoia glaucippe Linnaeus, 1758 Great Orange Tip<br />
30 Catopsilia pyranthe (Linnaeus, 1758) Mottled Emigrant<br />
31 Catopsilia pomona (Fabricius, 1775) Lemon Emigrant<br />
32 Catopsilia scylla (Linnaeus, 1763) Orange Migrant<br />
33 Pareronia ceylanica C. & R. Felder, 1865 Dark Wanderer<br />
34 Colotis amata (Fabricius, 1775) Small Salmon Arab<br />
35 Colotis fausta (Olivier, 1804) Large Salmon Arab<br />
36 Colotis danae (Fabricius, 1775) Crimson Tip<br />
37 Colotis aurora (Cramer, 1780) Plain Orange Tip<br />
38 Colotis etrida (Boisduval, 1836) Little Orange Tip<br />
39 Eurema brigitta (Stoll, [1780]) Small Grass Yellow<br />
40 Eurema laeta (Boisduval, 1836) Spotless Grass Yellow<br />
41 Eurema hecabe (Linnaeus, 1758) <strong>Common</strong> Grass Yellow<br />
42 Eurema blanda (Boisduval, 1836 Three Spot Grass Yellow<br />
43 Eurema ormistoni (Watkins, 1925) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n One-Spot Grass Yellow (E)<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
44 Idea iasonia (Westwood, 1848) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Nymph (E)<br />
45 Ideopsis similis (Linnaeus, 1758) Blue Glassy Tiger<br />
46 Tirumala limniace (Cramer, 1775) Blue Tiger<br />
47 Tirumala septentrionis (Butler, 1874) Dark Blue Tiger<br />
48 Parantica aglea (Stoll, 1782) Glassy Tiger<br />
49 Parantica taprobana (C. & R. Felder, [1865]) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tiger (E)<br />
50 Danaus chrysippus (Linnaeus, 1758) Plain Tiger<br />
51 Danaus genutia (Cramer, [1779]) <strong>Common</strong> Tiger<br />
52 Euploea core (Cramer, 1780) <strong>Common</strong> Crow<br />
53 Euploea sylvester (Fabricius, 1793) Double Branded Crow<br />
54 Euploea phaenareta (Schaller, 1785) Great Crow / King Crow<br />
55 Euploea klugii Moore, [1858] Brown King Crow<br />
56 Ariadne ariadne (Linnaeus, 1763) Angled Castor<br />
57 Ariadne merione (Cramer, 1777) <strong>Common</strong> Castor<br />
58 Byblia ilithyia (Drury, 1773) Joker<br />
59 Cupha erymanthis (Drury, 1773) Rustic<br />
60 Phalanta phalantha (Drury, 1773) Leopard<br />
61 Phalanta alcippe (Stoll, 1782) Small Leopard<br />
62 Vindula erota (Fabricius, 1793) Cruiser<br />
63 Cirrochroa thais (Fabricius, 1787) Tamil Yeoman<br />
64 Cethosia nietneri C. & R. Felder, [1867] Ceylon Lace Wing<br />
65 Argynnis hyperbius (Linnaeus, 1763) Indian Fritillary<br />
66 Vanessa indica (Herbst, 1794) Indian Red Admiral<br />
67 Vanessa cardui (Linnaeus, 1758) Painted Lady<br />
68 Kaniska canace (Linnaeus, 1763) Blue Admiral<br />
69 Junonia lemonias (Linnaeus, 1758) Lemon Pansy<br />
70 Junonia orithya (Linnaeus, 1758) Blue Pansy<br />
71 Junonia hierta (Linnaeus, 1798) Yellow Pansy<br />
72 Junonia atlites (Linnaeus, 1763) Grey Pansy<br />
73 Junonia iphita (Cramer, 1779) Chocolate Soldier<br />
74 Junonia almana (Linnaeus, 1758) Peacock Pansy<br />
75 Hypolimnas bolina (Linnaeus, 1758) Great Eggfly / <strong>Common</strong> Eggfly<br />
76 Hypolimnas misippus (Linnaeus, 1764) Danaid Eggfly<br />
77 Doleschallia bisaltide (Cramer, 1777) Autumn Leaf<br />
78 Kallima philarchus (Westwood, 1848) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Blue Oak Leaf (E)<br />
79 Pantoporia hordonia (Stoll, 1790) <strong>Common</strong> Lascar<br />
80 Neptis hylas (Linnaeus, 1758) <strong>Common</strong> Sailor<br />
81 Neptis jumbah Moore, [1858] Chestnut Streaked Sailor<br />
82 Moduza procris (Cramer, 1777) Commander<br />
83 Parthenos sylvia (Cramer, [1776]) Clipper<br />
84 Symphaedra nais (Forster, 1771) Baronet<br />
85 Dophla evelina (Stoll, 1790)) Red spot Duke<br />
86 Euthalia lubentina (Cramer, 1777) Gaudy Baron<br />
87 Euthalia aconthea (Cramer, 1777) Baron<br />
88 Rohana parisatis (Westwood, 1850) Black Prince<br />
89 Polyura athamas (Drury, [1773]) Nawab<br />
90 Charaxes solon (Fabricius, 1793) Black Rajah<br />
91 Charaxes psaphon Westwood, 1847 Tawny Rajah<br />
92 Libythea laius Trimen, 1879 Beak<br />
93 Libythea myrrha Godart, 1819 Club Beak<br />
94 Acraea violae (Fabricius, 1793) Tawny Coster<br />
24 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 25
95 Discophora lepida (Moore, 1857) Southern Duffer<br />
96 Melanitis leda (Linnaeus, 1758) <strong>Common</strong> Evening Brown<br />
97 Melanitis phedima (Cramer, [1780]) Dark Evening Brown<br />
98 Lethe drypetis (Hewitson, 1863) Tamil Treebrown<br />
99 Lethe daretis (Hewitson, 1863) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Treebrown (E)<br />
100 Lethe dynsate (Hewitson, 1863) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Forester (E)<br />
101 Lethe rohria (Fabricius, 1787) <strong>Common</strong> Treebrown<br />
102 Orsotriaena medus (Fabricius, 1775) Nigger / Medus Brown<br />
103 Mycalesis subdita (Moore, 1892) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tamil Bushbrown (E)<br />
104 Mycalesis mineus (Linnaeus, 1758) Dark-Brand Bushbrown<br />
105 Mycalesis perseus (Fabricius, 1775) <strong>Common</strong> Bushbrown<br />
106 Mycalesis rama (Moore, 1892) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Bushbrown (E)<br />
107 Mycalesis patnia Moore, 1857 Gladeye Bushbrown<br />
108 Ypthima ceylonica Hewitson, 1864 White Four-ring<br />
109 Ypthima singala R. Felder, 1868 <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Jewel Four-ring (E)<br />
110 Elymnias hypermnestra (Linnaeus, 1763) <strong>Common</strong> Palmfly<br />
111 Elymnias singhala Moore, [1875] <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Palmfly (E)<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
112 Spalgis epeus (Westwood, 1851) Apefly<br />
113 Curetis thetis (Drury, 1773) Indian Sunbeam<br />
114 Arhopala abseus (Hewitson, 1862) Aberrant Bushblue<br />
115 Arhopala amantes (Hewitson, 1862) Large Oakblue<br />
116 Arhopala bazaloides Hewitson, 1878 Tamil Oakblue<br />
117 Arhopala ormistoni Riley, 1920 <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Ormiston’s Oakblue (E)<br />
118 Arhopala centaurus (Fabricius, 1775) Centaur Oakblue<br />
119 Surendra quercetorum (Moore, [1858]) <strong>Common</strong> Acacia Blue<br />
120 Zesius chrysomallus Hübner, 1821 Redspot<br />
121 Amblypodia anita Hewitson, 1862 Purple Leaf Blue<br />
122 Iraota timoleon (Stoll, 1790) Silver Streak Blue<br />
123 Catapaecilma major Druce, 1895 <strong>Common</strong> Tinsel<br />
124 Loxura atymnus (Stoll, 1780) Yamfly<br />
125 Rathinda amor (Fabricius, 1775) Monkey-puzzle<br />
126 Horaga onyx (Moore, [1858]) Blue Onyx<br />
127 Horaga albimaculata Wood-Mason & de Nicéville, 1881 Brown Onyx<br />
128 Cheritra freja (Fabricius, 1793) <strong>Common</strong> Imperial<br />
129 Spindasis lohita (Horsfield, [1829]) Long-banded Silverline<br />
130 Spindasis vulcanus (Fabricius, 1775) <strong>Common</strong> Silverline<br />
131 Spindasis schistacea (Moore, 1881) Plumbeous Silverline<br />
132 Spindasis ictis (Hewitson, 1865) <strong>Common</strong> Shot Silverline<br />
133 Spindasis elima (Moore, 1877) Scarce Shot Silverline<br />
134 Spindasis nubilus (Moore, [1887]) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Clouded Silverline (E)<br />
135 Spindasis greeni Heron, 1896 <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Green’s Silverline (E)<br />
136 Tajuria cippus (Fabricius, 1798) Peacock Royal<br />
137 Tajuria jehana Moore, [1884] Plains Blue Royal<br />
138 Tajuria arida Riley, 1923 <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Indigo Royal (E)<br />
139 Pratapa deva (Moore, [1858]) White Royal<br />
140 Hypolycaena nilgirica Moore, [1884] Nilgiri Tit<br />
141 Bindahara phocides (Fabricius, 1793) Plane<br />
142 Virachola perse (Hewitson, 1863) Large Guava Blue<br />
143 Virachola isocrates (Fabricius, 1793) <strong>Common</strong> Guava Blue<br />
144 Rapala iarbus (Fabricius, 1787) Indian Red Flash<br />
145 Rapala manea (Hewitson, 1863) Slate Flash<br />
146 Rapala varuna (Horsfield, [1829]) Indigo Flash<br />
147 Rapala lankana Moore, 1879 Malabar Flash<br />
148 Deudorix epijarbas (Moore, 1857) Cornelian<br />
149 Anthene lycaenina (R. Felder, 1868) Pointed Ciliate Blue<br />
150 Petrelaea dana (de Nicéville, [1884]) Dingy Lineblue<br />
151 Nacaduba pactolus (C. Felder, 1860) Large Four Lineblue<br />
152 Nacaduba hermus (C. Felder, 1860) Pale Four Lineblue<br />
153 Nacaduba ollyetti Corbet, 1947 <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Woodhouse’s Four Lineblue (E)<br />
154 Nacaduba berenice (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869) Rounded Six Lineblue<br />
155 Nacaduba sinhala Ormiston, 1924 <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Pale Six Lineblue (E)<br />
156 Nacaduba kurava (Moore, [1858]) Transparent Six Lineblue<br />
157 Nacaduba beroe (C. & R. Felder, [1865]) Opaque Six Lineblue<br />
158 Nacaduba calauria (C. Felder, 1860) Dark Ceylon Six Lineblue<br />
159 Prosotas nora (C. Felder, 1860) <strong>Common</strong> Lineblue<br />
160 Prosotas dubiosa (Semper, [1879]) Tailless Lineblue<br />
161 Prosotas noreia (R. Felder, 1868) White-tipped Lineblue<br />
162 Ionolyce helicon (C. Felder, 1860) Pointed Lineblue<br />
163 Jamides bochus (Stoll, [1782]) Dark Cerulean<br />
164 Jamides coruscans (Moore, 1877) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Cerulean (E)<br />
165 Jamides lacteata (de Nicéville, 1895) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Milky Cerulean (E)<br />
166 Jamides alecto (C. Felder, 1860) Metallic Cerulean<br />
167 Jamides celeno (Cramer, [1775]) <strong>Common</strong> Cerulean<br />
168 Catochrysops panormus (C. Felder, 1860) Silver Forget-me-not<br />
169 Catochrysops strabo (Fabricius, 1793) Forget-me-not<br />
170 Lampides boeticus (Linnaeus, 1767) Pea Blue<br />
171 Leptotes plinius (Fabricius, 1793) Zebra Blue<br />
172 Castalius rosimon (Fabricius, 1775) <strong>Common</strong> Pierrot<br />
173 Discolampa ethion (Westwood, 1851) Banded Blue Pierrot<br />
174 Caleta decidia (Hewitson, 1876) Angled Pierrot<br />
175 Tarucus callinara Butler, 1886 Buttler’s Spotted Pierrot<br />
176 Tarucus nara (Kollar, 1848) Striped Pierrot<br />
177 Freyeria putli (Kollar, [1844]) Grass Jewel<br />
178 Zizeeria karsandra (Moore, 1865) Dark Grass Blue<br />
179 Zizina otis (Fabricius, 1787) Lesser Grass Blue<br />
180 Zizula hylax (Fabricius, 1775) Tiny Grass Blue<br />
181 Talicada nyseus (Guérin- Méneville, 1843) Red Pierrot<br />
26 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 27
182 Everes lacturnus (Godart, 1824) Indian Cupid<br />
183 Azanus ubaldus (Stoll, [1782]) Bright Babul Blue<br />
184 Azanus jesous Guérin-Méneville, 1849 African Babul Blue<br />
185 Acytolepis lilacea (Hampson, 1889) Hampson’s Hedge Blue<br />
186 Acytolepis puspa (Horsfield, 1828) <strong>Common</strong> Hedge Blue<br />
187 Celastrina lavendularis (Moore, 1877) Plain Hedge Blue<br />
188 Udara singalensis (R. Felder, 1868) Singalese Hedge Blue<br />
189 Udara akasa mavisa (Horsfield, [1828]) White Hedge Blue<br />
190 Udara lanka (Moore, 1877) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Hedge Blue (E)<br />
191 Neopithicops zalmora (Butler, [1870]) Quaker<br />
192 Megisba malaya (Horsfield, [1828]) Malayan<br />
193 Euchrysops cnejus (Fabricius, 1798) Gram Blue<br />
194 Chilades pandava (Horsfield, 1829) Plains Cupid<br />
195 Chilades lajus (Stoll, 1780) Lime Blue<br />
196 Chilades parrhasius (Fabricius, 1793) Small Cupid<br />
Riodinidae<br />
197 Abisara echerius (Stoll, 1790) Plum Judy<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
28 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
198 Burara oedipodea (Swainson, [1820]) Branded Orange Awlet<br />
199 Bibasis sena (Moore, [1865]) Orange-Tailed Awl<br />
200 Badamia exclamationis (Fabricius, 1775) Brown Awl<br />
201 Choaspes benjaminii (Guérin-Méneville, 1843) Indian Awl King<br />
202 Gangara thyrsis (Fabricius, 1775) Giant Red Eye<br />
203 Gangara lebadea (Hewiston, 1868) Banded Red Eye<br />
204 Hasora chromus (Cramer, [1780]) <strong>Common</strong> Banded Awl<br />
205 Hasora taminatus (Hübner, [1818]) White Banded Awl<br />
206 Hasora badra (Moore, [1858]) Ceylon Awl<br />
207 Celaenorrhinus spilothyrus (R. Felder, 1868) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Black Flat (E)<br />
208 Coladenia indrani (Moore, [1866]) Tricolour Pied Flat<br />
209 Sarangesa dasahara Moore, 1886 <strong>Common</strong> Small Flat<br />
210 Tapena thwaitesi Moore, [1881] Black Angle<br />
211 Tagiades japetus (Stoll, [1781]) Ceylon Snow Flat<br />
212 Tagiades litigiosa Möschler, 1878 Water Snow Flat<br />
213 Caprona ransonnettii (R. Felder, 1868) Golden Angle<br />
214 Caprona alida (de Nicéville, 1891) Ceylon Golden Angle<br />
215 Gomalia elma (Trimen, 1862) African Marbled Skipper<br />
216 Baracus vittatus (C. Felder, 1862) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Hedge Hopper (E)<br />
217 Ampittia dioscorides Fabricius, 1793 Bush Hopper<br />
218 Thoressa decorata (Moore, 1881) <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Decorated Ace (E)<br />
219 Halpe egena R. Felder, 1868 Rare Ace<br />
220 Halpe ceylonica Moore, 1878 Ceylon Ace<br />
221 Suastus gremius (Fabricius, 1798) Indian Palm Bob<br />
222 Suastus minuta (Moore, 1877) Small Palm Bob<br />
223 Iambrix salsala (Moore, [1866]) Chestnut Bob<br />
224 Udaspes folus (Cramer, [1775]) Grass Demon<br />
225 Notocrypta paralysos (Wood-Mason & de Nicéville, 1881) <strong>Common</strong> Banded Demon<br />
226 Notocrypta curvifascia (C. & R. Felder, 1862) Restricted Demon<br />
227 Hyarotis adrastus (Stoll, [1780]) Tree Flitter<br />
228 Matapa aria (Moore, [1866]) <strong>Common</strong> Red Eye<br />
229 Spialia galba (Fabricius, 1793) Indian Skipper<br />
230 Taractrocera maevius (Fabricius, 1793) <strong>Common</strong> Grass Dart<br />
231 Oriens goloides (Moore, [1881]) <strong>Common</strong> Dartlet<br />
232 Potanthus pallida (Evans, 1932) Indian Dart<br />
233 Potanthus pseudomaesa (Moore, [1881]) <strong>Common</strong> Dart<br />
234 Potanthus satra Fruhstorfer, 1911 Tropic Dart<br />
235 Telicota colon (Fabricius, 1775) Pale Palm Dart<br />
236 Telicota bambusae (Moore, 1878) Dark Palm Dart<br />
237 Cephrenes trichopepla (Lower, 1908) Yellow Palm Dart<br />
238 Borbo cinnara Wallace, 1866 Wallace’s Swift<br />
239 Pelopidas agna (Moore, [1866]) Little Branded Swift<br />
240 Pelopidas mathias (Fabricius, 1798) Small Branded Swift<br />
241 Pelopidas subochracea Moore, 1878 Large Branded Swift<br />
242 Pelopidas conjuncta (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869) Conjoined Swift<br />
243 Baoris penicillata Moore, [1881] <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Paint Brush Swift (E)<br />
244 Caltoris kumara (Moore, 1878) Blank Swift<br />
245 Caltoris philippina (Herrich-Schäffer, 1869) Philippine Swift<br />
246 Parnara bada (Moore, 1878) Smallest Swift<br />
3.2 Distribution <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
The Distribution <strong>of</strong> butterflies within <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> is predominantly determined<br />
by the distribution <strong>of</strong> larval food plants, coupled with some other secondary<br />
considerations. <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> can be divided into five major zones in relation to the<br />
distribution <strong>of</strong> butterflies.<br />
While the hill country and wet zone bear the highest number <strong>of</strong> endemic<br />
species, an absence <strong>of</strong> endemic species in the coastal belt <strong>of</strong> the wet zone has<br />
been observed due to increased urbanisation. As such, the population variations<br />
in butterflies in the wet zone are hardly noticeable, with only a slight drop in<br />
numbers during May to July, when the rainfall is at its highest. Meanwhile, in<br />
the hill country, the butterfly population is distinctly high in the first half <strong>of</strong> the<br />
year, diminishing in the later months, and sometimes vanishing entirely during<br />
misty spells.<br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 29
The dry zone is inhabited by a different set <strong>of</strong> butterflies that also show marked<br />
seasonal population fluctuations. In this area, butterflies start to fly en masse<br />
after the North-Eastern monsoonal rains begin in late October. This peak remains<br />
until the end <strong>of</strong> March and keep decreasing until August-September, when it<br />
becomes difficult to find butterflies except in wet forest habitats such as in the<br />
immediate catchment area <strong>of</strong> reservoirs.<br />
The intermediate zone, where the three aforementioned wet, dry and hill<br />
country zones merge, bears the highest number <strong>of</strong> butterfly species. This zone<br />
contains species that are found in the other zones, save for those species adapted<br />
to specific conditions. Some species prefer this confluence habitat far more than<br />
the the other zones (e.g. Autumn Leaf - Doleschallia bisaltide, Beak - Libythea laius).<br />
A favorable season also persists in this area from late October, lasting until late<br />
May and sometimes extending up to June.<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>’s northern region is inhabited by dry zone butterflies together with<br />
some species that are confined to thorny scrublands habitats. As in the dry zone,<br />
the butterfly season in this zone peaks with the beginning <strong>of</strong> the rains, but ends<br />
fairly quickly.<br />
Hill Country<br />
Wet Zone<br />
Intermediate Zone<br />
Dry Zone<br />
Nothern Zone<br />
3.3 Threats to <strong>Butterflies</strong> and their Conservation<br />
The main threat to butterflies, along with other wildlife at large, is the loss <strong>of</strong><br />
their natural habitat. While the complete destruction <strong>of</strong> a habitat is apparent<br />
to any person, habitat degradation also poses a considerable threat to small<br />
species like butterflies. These delicate butterflies require tremendously specific<br />
micro habitat conditions for their survival. Over-exposure to sunlight caused by<br />
tree felling, adjustments to the chemical composition <strong>of</strong> their feeding material<br />
due to pesticides, changes to population dynamics causes by unexpected<br />
weather conditions, and alterations to habitats caused by invasive plant species<br />
inherently influence the survival <strong>of</strong> these species.<br />
From a conservation point <strong>of</strong> view, butterflies can be divided into two categories.<br />
The most significant <strong>of</strong> these are the category <strong>of</strong> butterflies that need very<br />
specific habitat requirements in pristine forest habitats. In <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>, these<br />
habitats are consistently diminishing, and the conservation <strong>of</strong> these spaces is<br />
<strong>of</strong> prime importance. The second category <strong>of</strong> butterflies does not need such<br />
specific conditions, and these can be conserved even within human habitations<br />
through the introduction <strong>of</strong> slight adjustments to the environment.<br />
Any butterfly enthusiast can easily take part in conservation processes focused on<br />
the second category. Firstly, one could gather knowledge about the butterflies in<br />
and around ones area, both by reference and more importantly, individual field<br />
studies. These activities can help with gaining a considerable understanding<br />
<strong>of</strong> butterflies and how one’s home garden can be adapted to attract them by<br />
planting suitable larval food plants and nectar plants, and avoiding the use <strong>of</strong><br />
chemical pesticides. Through this, one can carry on learning about butterflies<br />
even at home, and will no doubt provide extraordinary satisfaction. Those who<br />
are interested in further engaging with the protection <strong>of</strong> butterflies can actively<br />
participate in conservation processes for threatened species.<br />
3.4 The Study <strong>of</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong><br />
The most important thing one needs to study butterflies is the desire and<br />
commitment to learn about these tiny, fascinating creatures. Keen eyes and<br />
an analytical mind are necessary to further explore ones observations and<br />
environment. If a butterfly is disturbed, the chance <strong>of</strong> studying its activities is<br />
lost and any efforts at doing so will come to an end. It is important to wear dullcoloured<br />
clothing to better blend into the environment. It is also good practice<br />
to bring a note book and a pencil to the field note down any observations. This<br />
will no doubt help in analysing data collected, and in comparing field notes with<br />
published information, or even discussing observations with fellow-enthusiasts.<br />
30 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 31
3.5 How to use this Book<br />
This book contains individual descriptions<br />
<strong>of</strong> 100 selected species <strong>of</strong> butterflies.<br />
Many <strong>of</strong> these species are found in human<br />
settlements, while a few others are found in<br />
the wild. Descriptions contain information<br />
on how to identify adult butterflies<br />
including distinguishing features, sexual<br />
and seasonal differences, and their habits<br />
and habitats. Some details on larval food<br />
plants have also been provided, and the<br />
distribution <strong>of</strong> these butterflies has been<br />
illustrated with the use <strong>of</strong> maps. It is also<br />
necessary to note that butterflies are not<br />
evenly distributed in the areas shown in<br />
the maps, but are found in suitable habitats<br />
within these marked areas.<br />
Colour Code<br />
Papilionidae<br />
Pieridae<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Lower<br />
Illustrations<br />
Endemic<br />
Upper<br />
Captions <strong>of</strong><br />
illustrations<br />
Riodinidae<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
Endemic<br />
Family<br />
name<br />
Family<br />
colour<br />
code<br />
<strong>Common</strong> name<br />
Scientific name<br />
Physical<br />
characteristics<br />
LFPs<br />
Size<br />
Red Data<br />
Status<br />
Habits<br />
L<br />
Large<br />
Wing span > = 100 mm<br />
M<br />
Medium<br />
100 mm > wingspan < = 60 mm<br />
S<br />
T<br />
Small<br />
60 mm > wingspan < = 30 mm<br />
Sizes<br />
Tiny<br />
30 mm > wingspan<br />
Habitats and<br />
distribution<br />
Red Data Status<br />
The following data for the species have been included based on records for 2012<br />
EX Extinct, CR Critically Endangered, EN Endangered, VU Vulnerable,<br />
NT Near Threatened, LC Least Concerned, DD Data Deficient, NE Not Evaluated<br />
EX<br />
CR<br />
EN<br />
Extinct Threatened Lower Risk<br />
VU NT LC DD NE<br />
Distribution map<br />
More Abundant<br />
Absent<br />
Less Abundant<br />
LFPs<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Scientific name<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Sinhala name<br />
32 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 33
L<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Birdwing Troides darsius<br />
Crimson Rose Pachliopta hector<br />
LC E L<br />
LC<br />
Papilionidae<br />
Male<br />
Female<br />
Male: Jet black throughout on both sides; large golden yellow patch on the hind<br />
wing separated by black veins. Female: Typically bigger than the male; chalky black<br />
butterfly with white dustings beside the forewing veins; a variable golden yellow<br />
patch on the hind wing is reduced to form a separate, central patch and a submarginal<br />
row <strong>of</strong> patches. Distinct red patches on the thorax are seen in both sexes.<br />
The <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Birdwing flies very high in strong wing beats. While this butterfly is fond<br />
<strong>of</strong> feeding on flowers at higher levels, it will occasionally descend down to flowers at<br />
lower levels even though it does not typically fly within this range. A special attraction<br />
to Mussaenda frondosa (uqiaiekao) flowers has been observed. Females prefer to lay<br />
eggs on high-climbing vines. This is a migrant species.<br />
Both sexes are similar in pattern, but the females are quite big and dull in colouration.<br />
The Crimson Rose is a black butterfly with two white bands on the forewing and two<br />
rows <strong>of</strong> bright crimson patches on the hind wing. The shapes <strong>of</strong> the crimson patches<br />
vary. The outer margin is serrated and the tornus extends in to a tail in the hind<br />
wing. Its abdomen, thorax and head always have crimson patches. These patches are<br />
reduced in females.<br />
The Crimson Rose visits the flowers <strong>of</strong> scrubs and some varieties <strong>of</strong> taller herbs, in<br />
groups. They are quite dormant and stop over at flowers near the ground in the early<br />
hours <strong>of</strong> the day, but become very active towards noon. Occasionally they can be<br />
seen mud puddling in small numbers. This is a migratory species.<br />
Papilionidae<br />
This butterfly prefers forested areas, but also can be seen in lush home gardens. It is<br />
a common butterfly in the low country wet zone, becoming scarce towards the hills<br />
and dry zone.<br />
This endemic species is the national butterfly <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>.<br />
LFPs: Its sole LFP is Aristolochia indica (imai|).<br />
This butterfly inhabits open vegetation; scrublands being the most preferred. It is<br />
abundant in such habitats in the dry zone during the season. It is occasionally seen in<br />
the low country wet zone but never in large numbers. Very rarely some can be seen at<br />
higher elevations in migratory flight.<br />
LFPs: Aristolochia indica (imai|), Aristolochia bracteolata – preferred in the northwestern<br />
region, Aristolochia ringens (;drdu,a)<br />
34 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 35
<strong>Common</strong> Rose Pachliopta aristolochiae<br />
Banded Peacock Papilio crino<br />
M LC M VU<br />
Papilionidae<br />
The sexes are similar, but the females are quite large and have much rounder forewing<br />
apexes. The <strong>Common</strong> Rose has white dustings throughout its forewing, where it forms<br />
a pattern amidst the veins. The white patch on its hind wing varies, sometimes leaving<br />
the cells entirely black. The row <strong>of</strong> rosy-coloured, crescent shaped sub-marginal<br />
patches on its underside are large and bright. The outer margin is serrated and the<br />
tornus extends into a tail in the hind wing. Its abdomen, thorax and head always have<br />
red patches. These patches are reduced in females.<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Rose prefers to fly at medium height, in a quite slow but steady flight.<br />
They ascend higher when flowers are available or when in migratory flight. This<br />
species also occasionally engages in mud puddling.<br />
The Banded Peacock has a median band on its upper side. This is quite narrow in<br />
females. The colour <strong>of</strong> this band varies from emerald green to royal blue according to<br />
the angle <strong>of</strong> light. Other areas <strong>of</strong> its wings are uniformly dusted with shiny scales on a<br />
black background with an ‘eye spot’ outlined in red on its hind wing at the anal angle.<br />
The tail tip is pronounced with shiny scales. Its underside is sparsely dusted with white<br />
scales and a row <strong>of</strong> sub-marginal patches is visible on its hind wing.<br />
The Banded Peacock is a fast-flying butterfly, especially in hot conditions. It is also<br />
quite difficult to trace due to its contrasting colouration. It feeds on the flowers <strong>of</strong><br />
scrubs, while hovering. Females usually fly very high to lay eggs. Males come to drying<br />
river beds to mud puddle. This is a migratory species.<br />
Papilionidae<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Rose can be seen in open habitats such as scrublands, home gardens<br />
and thin forests, but prefers much wetter places and are never as numerous as the<br />
Crimson Rose. It is commonly found all over <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> except at higher elevations,<br />
where it becomes scarce.<br />
The Banded Peacock’s usual habitat is sparse dry zone forests where its main larval<br />
food plant grows. It uses sunny, scrubland patches and openings within these forests<br />
for nectar feeding. It has been reported in the low country wet zone in isolated, ad<br />
hoc locations, but never commonly.<br />
LFPs: Aristolochia indica (imai|), Aristolochia bracteolata – preferred in the North-<br />
West, Aristolochia ringens (;drdu,a) and occasionally Thottea siliquosa (;dmir nq,;a).<br />
LFPs: Chloroxylon swietenia (nqre;)- most preferable, Toddalia asiatica (l=vqñßiai),<br />
Clausena indica (ó f.dx lrmsxpd)<br />
38 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 39
Lime Butterfly Papilio demoleus<br />
Red Helen Papilio helenus<br />
M LC L VU<br />
Papilionidae<br />
The sexes are similar, with an elongated forewing and rounded hind wing found in<br />
both sexes. The yellow patches become duller in older butterflies. The size <strong>of</strong> the<br />
red patch on its hind wing at the anal angle varies, sometimes leaving a black area<br />
between the red patch and blue line. The blue line near the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the hind<br />
wing is usually concealed. This line is distinct on the underside, with a light orangecoloured<br />
centre. There are similar patches on the central part <strong>of</strong> the hind wing.<br />
The Lime Butterfly resembles a Pierid due to its very fast flight around noon, and<br />
its colouration. This scrubland-dwelling butterfly loves the sun very much and it<br />
immediately descends down in to a thicket when the sun is covered by a cloud. Male<br />
Lime <strong>Butterflies</strong> can be seen mud puddling. This is a migratory species.<br />
The sexes are almost similar but a variation <strong>of</strong> the pattern on its underside is prevalent<br />
in females. Occasionally there is a small white patch on the upper side towards the<br />
apex on its forewing. The cilia <strong>of</strong> its hind wing are marked in white, with a red mark at<br />
the anal angle. The large white patch on its hind wing is concealed on the upper side,<br />
when the butterfly is resting, but is prominent when it is in flight. Additional white<br />
dustings on its forewing and a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> crescent-shaped red patches on<br />
its hind wing can be seen on its underside.<br />
The Red Helen flies along forest paths in a deep, irregular wing beat. It goes much<br />
higher for nectar. It is common to see these butterflies puddling in numbers on wet<br />
patches consisting <strong>of</strong> leaf litter adjacent to streams at mid elevations.<br />
Papilionidae<br />
This species is most abundant in dry scrubland habitats, but can also be commonly<br />
seen in the wet zone. Although it does not seem to have breeding populations at<br />
higher elevations, these have been observed during their migratory flight.<br />
LFPs: It uses many Rutaceae plants. Some <strong>of</strong> them are Chloroxylon swietenia (nqre;),<br />
Citrus x limon (f,uka), Limonia acidissima (Èjq,a). It mostly uses Cullen corylifolium<br />
(Fabaceae species) in the Jaffna peninsula.<br />
This is a damp forested species commonly found in the wet zone, especially at mid<br />
elevations, becoming scarcer towards lower elevations. It is found in considerable<br />
numbers in their natural habitats, but there are only few such pristine habitats<br />
remaining in the country.<br />
LFPs: Zanthoxylum tetraspermum, Toddalia asiatica (l=vqñßiai), Citrus madurensis (kia<br />
kdrx)<br />
38 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 39
<strong>Common</strong> Mormon Papilio polytes<br />
Blue Mormon Papilio polymnestor<br />
M LC L<br />
LC<br />
Papilionidae<br />
Male<br />
Female -<br />
Form Stichius<br />
Male: A black butterfly with a series <strong>of</strong> white outer marginal spots on the forewing<br />
and a series <strong>of</strong> much larger spots across the hind wing. Both series align into one series<br />
when the butterfly is at rest. Female: Occurs in three forms. Form Cyrus: resembles<br />
the male with additional red markings on the hind wing. Form Stichius: mimics the<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Rose but its abdomen is completely black. Form Romulus: mimics the<br />
Crimson Rose but its abdomen is completely black and the patches on the hind wing<br />
are not bright crimson.<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Mormon flies at medium height, <strong>of</strong>ten visiting flowers <strong>of</strong> scrubs and<br />
large herbs. Males engage in mud puddling. This is a migrant species.<br />
This butterfly has adapted to many types <strong>of</strong> habitats, ranging from forests to sparse<br />
vegetation. It is common all over the country but quite low in number at the highest<br />
elevations. Form Stichius is more abundant in the wet zone, while form Romulus is<br />
more abundant in the dry zone. Form Cyrus is fewer in number than the others.<br />
LFPs: Various Rutaceae plants. i.e. Pleiospermium alatum (;=ka m;a l=re÷), Murraya<br />
koenigii (lrmsxpd), Glycosmis pentaphylla (fodvïmdk)<br />
The sexes are similar but the female is duller in colouration. Its hind wing is distinctly<br />
large and rounded. The upper surface <strong>of</strong> its forewing has a band <strong>of</strong> blue scales,<br />
while the hind wing is almost blue except for the basal parts and distal rows <strong>of</strong> black<br />
patches. The veins <strong>of</strong> the hind wing are clearly marked in black. The pattern <strong>of</strong> its<br />
underside is replaced by grey scales in a reduced area. The basal parts <strong>of</strong> both wings<br />
have red patches between the veins.<br />
The Blue Mormon moves fast due to its powerful wing beat, though it does not<br />
beat them rapidly. It very much likes to feed on the flowers <strong>of</strong> Clerodendrum (mskak)<br />
species. Males engage in mud puddling, but rarely settle in one place for more than<br />
few seconds. It beats its wings while puddling, and goes here and there in the wet<br />
patch. It has been seen roosting on opened up foliage, with its wings spread out. This<br />
is a migrant species.<br />
This butterfly prefers forest habitats including lush home gardens. It is spread out<br />
commonly throughout the country, but is not found numerously.<br />
LFPs: Various Rutaceae plants including Citrus grandis (cïfnda,), Atalantia ceylanica<br />
(hls kdrx), Citrus reticulata (ySka kdrx)<br />
Male<br />
Papilionidae<br />
40 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 41
L<br />
LC<br />
Mime Papilio clytia<br />
Blue Bottle Graphium sarpedon<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Papilionidae<br />
Form clytia<br />
Form dissimilis<br />
Both sexes occur in two forms. Form dissimilis: mimics blue-coloured Tigers.<br />
Colouration is black and white throughout the wings, on both sides. A sub-marginal<br />
row <strong>of</strong> “^” shaped markings, lower bifid endings on white lines and an orange spot at<br />
the anal angle are marked features apparent on the upper surface <strong>of</strong> its hind wing.<br />
These markings are prominent on its underside with an additional, marginal row <strong>of</strong><br />
orange-coloured spots. Form clytia: mimics Crows. They are brown in colour, with<br />
markings towards the outer margins as in the previous form.<br />
The sexes are similar. It has a narrow forewing and a serrated outer margin on its hind<br />
wing which extends into a short tail at the tornus. The upper surface <strong>of</strong> its wings is<br />
blackish brown with a median blue band divided into rectangular patches by black<br />
veins. The patches towards the forewing apex have a greenish tinge. A sub-marginal<br />
band <strong>of</strong> crescent shaped patches are present on its hind wing. Blue markings are<br />
visible in a similar manner on its underside, on a chocolate brown background with<br />
additional red patches on the hind wing.<br />
Papilionidae<br />
The Mime mimics the habits <strong>of</strong> its models. They have a slow, reckless flight pattern but<br />
if alarmed, they escape in their usual fast papilionid flight. They typically rest in closed<br />
wing position as Danaids. They hover when feeding on flowers, but not in a rapid<br />
manner as seen in other Papilionids.<br />
The Blue Bottle is a very fast flier who regularly flies at canopy level in low forests. It visits<br />
canopy flowers and sometimes descends to shrubs like Hedyotis fruticosa (jerKsh). It<br />
is rapid even at feeding, quickly jumping from flower to flower and returning to the<br />
same one again. It is regularly seen at hill tops where others are absent due to excess<br />
wind. Males engage in mud puddling, typically alone or in a group <strong>of</strong> 2-3.<br />
Like their models, the Mime is found in open vegetation. It can be seen in home<br />
gardens and thin forests, but is not too fond <strong>of</strong> scrublands where its models are<br />
abundant. It is common in the lowlands.<br />
It is commonly found in damp, densely wooded areas in the wet zone. It is occasionally<br />
found in the dry zone, but always in wet habitats, and especially in the rainy season.<br />
42 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
LFPs: Litsea glutinosa (fnda ó) – most preferable, Neolitsea cassia (ojq,a l=re÷),<br />
Cinnamomum verum (l=re÷), Litsea longifolia (r;a lE,sh)<br />
LFPs: Neolitsea cassia (ojq,a<br />
stenophylla (ksl ojq,)<br />
l=re÷q), Cinnamomum verum (l=re÷), Actinodaphne<br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 43
M<br />
LC<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Jay Graphium doson<br />
Tailed Jay Graphium agamemnon<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Papilionidae<br />
The sexes are alike. The forewing is elongated with a concave outer margin; the hind<br />
wing is serrated at the outer margin but it has no tail. This butterfly’s upper side is<br />
black in colour, with a median light blue band and sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> spots on<br />
both wings. The forewing cell bears some blue markings. The background colour is<br />
much duller on the underside, and the blue markings appear enlarged due to the<br />
pale outline. Its hind wing has red markings, including a stripe along the inner margin.<br />
The sexes are similar in pattern, but females have longer tails. The forewing is pointed<br />
and the outer margin is slightly serrated. The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing is clearly<br />
serrated, with a distinct tornal tail. It is dark brown in colour with green patches<br />
dispersed throughout. The patches are brighter towards the forewing base, and turn<br />
yellowish towards the outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. Its underside is pale brown and<br />
clouded with pale purplish tinged scales. The green patches are not prominent.<br />
Papilionidae<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Jay is a swift flier and can always be seen flying along forest paths. Males<br />
engage in mud puddling in large numbers on gravel roads and river beds, sometimes<br />
together with Blue Bottles and other butterfly species. They settle down to puddle<br />
more frequently than other Papilionids. They can be seen on flowers rarely. This is a<br />
migrant species.<br />
This butterfly frequents forest areas and sometimes lushly wooded home gardens. It<br />
is distributed throughout the country except in the extreme north. It seems that there<br />
are no breeding populations in the hill country, but occur only at migration.<br />
LFPs: Uvaria macropoda, Miliusa indica (lels,s ueiai), Polyalthia korinti (W,a flkao)<br />
The habits <strong>of</strong> the Tailed Jay are very similar to those <strong>of</strong> the Blue Bottle, except that they<br />
only very rarely engage in mud puddling.<br />
It is common throughout the country in sparsely wooded areas, and wet habitats<br />
are not essential. It is quite unusual in forests, but can be found abundantly in home<br />
gardens where its larval food plants are grown for fruits. Lately, its numbers in the<br />
wet zone marshes have increased due to the propagation <strong>of</strong> the invasive alien plant<br />
species Annona glabra (fj,a wd;a;d).<br />
LFPs: It has nearly 20 species <strong>of</strong> larval food plants belonging to the family Annonaceae,<br />
ranging from planted species to forested species. These include: Polyalthia cerasoides<br />
(mÜg W,a flkao), Annona muricata (lgq wfkdaod), Xylopia championii (o;a leáh)<br />
44 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 45
S<br />
LC<br />
Psyche Leptosia nina<br />
Jezebel Delias eucharis<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Pieridae<br />
The sexes are similar. Both its wings are rounded. It is a pure white butterfly with<br />
a black spot at the edge <strong>of</strong> the cell and another irregular patch at the apex <strong>of</strong> the<br />
upper side <strong>of</strong> the forewing. These patches are faintly visible through the under side,<br />
especially against the light. Its underside is mottled in khaki green scales which<br />
are distinct in newly emerged butterflies. The mottles on the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the<br />
forewing are blackish.<br />
The Psyche flies among herbs and grasses, never above 2 feet. If it is alarmed, it flies<br />
restlessly, but very slowly around a small area for a long period. It settles on flowers<br />
regularly in an inclined angle with folded wings, while hiding its forewing between<br />
its hind wings. Though it is pure white, it is difficult to locate when settled, due to the<br />
mottled markings. It is fond <strong>of</strong> flowers such as Oxalis barrelieri, but it rarely sips mud.<br />
The female has more black areas along the veins in both wings and have a much<br />
brighter colouration on the outer marginal spots on the upper surface <strong>of</strong> its hind<br />
wing. The male has extensive white areas, leaving no trace <strong>of</strong> black on the basal parts<br />
<strong>of</strong> its hind wing. The undersides are quite similar in both sexes. The forewing is marked<br />
in white patches, amidst black veins. In dark specimens, the apical patches are yellow.<br />
Its hind wing markings are yellow with black stripes in between. The oval shaped<br />
reddish orange markings on black outer margin are outlined in white.<br />
Female can be regularly seen leisurely flying around trees in search <strong>of</strong> their LFPs. They<br />
lay eggs in clusters. Both sexes visit flowers on shrubs in the morning hours. These<br />
butterflies have courtship displays; sometimes 2-3 males are attracted to one female.<br />
Males never engage mud puddling as their mimics, the Painted Sawtooths do.<br />
Female<br />
Pieridae<br />
This butterfly is abundant in herby weed growths under the shade <strong>of</strong> trees. It never<br />
goes too far into sunny patches or into dense forest areas. It is a low country butterfly,<br />
particularly found in the wet zone and scarcely in the hills.<br />
This butterfly is common in park type vegetation, and is never found in dense forests.<br />
Although scrublands are not greatly preferred, a fair number <strong>of</strong> individuals can be<br />
seen in these habitats. It is distributed all over the country.<br />
LFPs: Its most preferred plant is the exotic Cleome rutidosperma. Rorippa nasturtiumaquaticum<br />
(llal=gq m,d), and Capparis zeylanica are also used.<br />
LFPs: Many Loranthaceae plants (ms
S<br />
LC<br />
Pioneer Belenois aurota<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Gull Cepora nerissa<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Pieridae<br />
Wet season form<br />
Female<br />
The sexes are similar, except for the black band along the upper vein <strong>of</strong> the forewing<br />
cell on the upper wing surface, which is extensively marked in females. The outer<br />
margin <strong>of</strong> both wings is broadly marked in black, with dispersed white patches only<br />
in the male. The basal area has a creamy hue in its wet season form, but otherwise, it is<br />
white. The colour <strong>of</strong> the patches on the underside <strong>of</strong> its hind wing ranges from deep<br />
orange in its wet season form to pale yellow in its dry season form. The colour <strong>of</strong> the<br />
underside <strong>of</strong> the forewing also takes a creamy hue in its wet season form.<br />
The fast-flying Pioneer prefers to fly in the hot hours <strong>of</strong> the day and is one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
species that can be seen even in extremely dry months. At the peak <strong>of</strong> its season,<br />
this butterfly can be seen very commonly and takes part in migration in considerable<br />
numbers. Males are seen mud puddling together with other Pierids during this flight.<br />
Females lay eggs in batches on leaves.<br />
The breeding populations <strong>of</strong> this butterfly entirely depend on dry zone scrublands,<br />
but can be seen in the wet zone during their migratory flight.<br />
The sexes are alike, except for the female being heavily marked in black on the upper<br />
side. On the other hand, these markings are heavier in their wet season form, in<br />
comparison to their dry season form. Its undersides are marked with yellow patches<br />
on both wings and dark scales along the veins. These yellow patches become much<br />
lighter in the extreme dry season form. A dark coloured indistinct distal band is also<br />
present on its hind wing.<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Gull is a fast flier that prefers the hot hours <strong>of</strong> the day. It opens its wings<br />
only to the first sun rays in the morning, becoming very active after that. It settles on<br />
the flowers <strong>of</strong> scrubs, but descends to lower levels if food is available. It doesn’t waste<br />
much time on a single flower and always hurries to another. Males frequently visit<br />
mud patches and sand beds in great numbers, especially during their migratory flight.<br />
It is very common in dry scrublands during the season, where its LFPs grow pr<strong>of</strong>usely. It<br />
is dispersed throughout the country even at the highest elevations during migration,<br />
but never breeds there.<br />
Pieridae<br />
LFPs: Cadaba trifoliata, Maerua arenaria, Capparis grandis and some other Capparaceae<br />
plants.<br />
LFPs: Plants <strong>of</strong> Capparaceae family including Capparis moonii (reoka;s), Crataeva<br />
adansonii (¨KqjrK), Capparis roxburghii (l¨ b,a,ka f.ä)<br />
48 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 49
M<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Lesser Albatross Appias galene<br />
White Orange Tip Ixias marianne<br />
LC E S<br />
LC<br />
Pieridae<br />
Female<br />
Male<br />
The outer margin <strong>of</strong> its forewing is concave and the tornus <strong>of</strong> its hind wing is not<br />
pointed, differentiating it from the <strong>Common</strong> Albatross. Male: white on the upper<br />
side with a small variable amount <strong>of</strong> black scales towards margins <strong>of</strong> the forewing,<br />
which can be absent in dry season forms. The whole <strong>of</strong> its hind wing and forewing<br />
apex are creamy on the underside, becoming brighter in its wet season form. Female:<br />
a broad black band is apparent on the margin <strong>of</strong> the upper side <strong>of</strong> the forewing,<br />
which consists <strong>of</strong> up to three white spots. The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing has a<br />
continuous black band. The underside <strong>of</strong> the forewing has a broad black band around<br />
the upper portion <strong>of</strong> the cell. The other parts are white in colour. There is a rare form<br />
which has yellow undersides with a distal band <strong>of</strong> dark scales on the hind wing.<br />
Many individuals take part in migration and both sexes can be seen gregariously<br />
puddling in mud patches during this flight. Sometimes these migrations can last for<br />
weeks. They prefer mid height levels for nectar feeding, but climb up for laying eggs.<br />
It is abundant in the dry zone, but can also be seen in the wet zone and in the hills in<br />
some numbers, especially during migration.<br />
Its upper side is white with a large orange patch on the apex <strong>of</strong> the forewing. This<br />
patch is interrupted by small black markings in females. The outer margins <strong>of</strong> both<br />
wings are edged in black. Its yellow coloured under side is faintly mottled in dark<br />
scales, and has a light orange area on the forewing. Sometimes, the white patches on<br />
the distal band are reduced greatly, leaving only the dark outlines. Variations in colour<br />
and pattern among individuals are common.<br />
The White Orange Tip becomes active soon after the morning sun shines, and keeps<br />
flying even at mid day. It occasionally spreads out its wings for basking, in the early<br />
morning hours. It is fond <strong>of</strong> flying in sparse scrublands scattered with herbaceous<br />
plants. It is especially attracted to Leucas zeylanica (.eg ;=U) flowers. The females lay<br />
eggs on the dead branches <strong>of</strong> their larval food plants.<br />
It is restricted to the dry lowlands and is common in scrubland areas, being much<br />
more abundant in northern parts <strong>of</strong> the island.<br />
LFPs: Capparis grandis, Capparis sepiaria<br />
Male<br />
Pieridae<br />
LFPs: Drypetes sepiaria (ùr), Drypetes gardneri (weg ùr$.,a ùr)<br />
50 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 51
M<br />
LC<br />
Lemon Emigrant Catopsilia pomona<br />
Small Salmon Arab Colotis amata<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Pieridae<br />
Female<br />
Male<br />
Though the species is divided into two forms by the colour <strong>of</strong> its antennae, it is a<br />
highly variable butterfly even within each form. One form has pink coloured antennae<br />
and wings that are bright yellow on both sides. The females <strong>of</strong> this form may have<br />
brown blotches and silver spots on their undersides and always have black borders<br />
on the upper side. The other form has dark coloured antenna, and generally has light<br />
greenish-yellow wings, with some dark yellow scales towards the base <strong>of</strong> the forewing<br />
on the upper side. In females, the margins on the upper side are irregularly bordered<br />
in black.<br />
The Lemon Emigrant has a rapid, bouncy, irregular flight. It flies, even above tree tops,<br />
in great numbers during their migratory flight. They gather at mud patches and river<br />
beds regularly and even feed on fecal matter such as elephant dung during migration.<br />
Both forms can be seen together commonly, irrespective <strong>of</strong> a specific season.<br />
This butterfly is commonly found in the lowlands, especially in the dry zone. It appears<br />
in hilly areas during migration.<br />
This salmon pink butterfly has broad black borders on the outer and upper margins <strong>of</strong><br />
the upper side <strong>of</strong> its forewing. A black oval-shaped patch at the end <strong>of</strong> the forewing<br />
cell that distinctly touches the upper border can be observed. There are some grey<br />
dustings towards the basal parts. Occasionally, there are whitish females, especially in<br />
the dry months. Its undersides are yellow with irregular grey dustings. Usually females<br />
are heavily marked on the underside.<br />
The slow-flying Small Salmon Arab always flies near the ground. Even though their<br />
larval food plant tends to grow up, they use stunted trees, saplings or shoots that<br />
come out from base <strong>of</strong> trees to lay eggs in batches. These butterflies congregate<br />
for roosting and choose dried up herbaceous areas to settle, allowing them to<br />
camouflage themselves.<br />
This butterfly is frequently found in scrublands in the low drylands and is abundant<br />
closer to sea in the arid areas in the north and south.<br />
Female<br />
Pieridae<br />
LFPs: Many Fabaceae plants including Cassia fistula (weye
S<br />
NT<br />
Little Orange Tip Colotis etrida<br />
Small Grass Yellow Eurema brigitta<br />
S<br />
NT<br />
Pieridae<br />
The sexes are alike. The distinct markings on this white butterfly include a bright<br />
orange apical patch which is broadly outlined in black found on the upper surface <strong>of</strong><br />
the forewing. It also has a minute black spot on the fore wing cell and grey dustings<br />
on the basal parts. The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing is marked in black. Its underside<br />
is variably dusted in grey scales. It always has a minute black spot on each cell. The<br />
spot on the hind wing cell is incorporated with a diffused reddish patch.<br />
The Little Orange Tip has a moderately fast flight, which peaks during the hotter hours<br />
<strong>of</strong> the day. It always prefers to fly near the ground searching for nectar. It has a habit<br />
<strong>of</strong> perching on sandy ground among plants with partially opened wings, although it<br />
must be noted that this is not for mud puddling. When threatened, it closes its wings<br />
in a way that helps it camouflage itself against lightly coloured surroundings.<br />
This butterfly is commonly found in dry zone scrublands, especially towards coastal<br />
areas.<br />
The sexes are alike. The shape <strong>of</strong> the outer margin <strong>of</strong> its hind wing is truncated, being<br />
more prominent in dry season individuals. It has a broad, regular black outer margin<br />
on the upper surface <strong>of</strong> its forewing. The outer margin <strong>of</strong> its hind wing is also broad,<br />
but not as broad as that on the forewing. Its underside is dusted with scattered black<br />
scales and is sporadically interspersed with a few small black spots. The dustings on<br />
the hind wing sometimes form distal bands. Its cell end spots are never large enough<br />
to form a hollow centre. It does not have any markings on the base <strong>of</strong> its forewing cell.<br />
The Small Grass Yellow prefers to fly quite slowly near the ground. It frequently settles<br />
among grass blades and is disturbed by even a slight movement <strong>of</strong> the grasses. It<br />
does not open its wings when settling and rarely settles on mud patches.<br />
This butterfly prefers open vegetation. It is frequent in the highland grasslands and<br />
the much lower savannah grasslands where its larval food plants grow abundantly. It<br />
has also been recorded ad hoc in the low country dry zone.<br />
Laying Eggs<br />
Pieridae<br />
LFPs: Maerua arenaria<br />
LFPs: All Chamaecrista species (ìx ishU,d) in the country including C. nictitans, C.<br />
kleinii and C. mimosoides<br />
54 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 55
<strong>Common</strong> Grass Yellow Eurema hecabe<br />
Three Spot Grass Yellow Eurema blanda<br />
S NT S NT<br />
Pieridae<br />
The sexes are alike. The shape <strong>of</strong> the outer margin is not completely rounded on its<br />
hind wing, nor wavy on its forewing. The upper surface <strong>of</strong> the butterfly’s forewing has<br />
a broad, black, irregular outer margin and a thin, fairly regular one on its hind wing. Its<br />
underside is variously marked in black. It always has a black mark with a yellow centre<br />
on each cell end. The forewing cell has two other basal black markings. Sometimes<br />
they have a chocolate coloured patch on the apex <strong>of</strong> the forewing, usually smaller<br />
than that <strong>of</strong> the Three Spot Grass Yellow.<br />
It always prefers to fly near the ground and around small scrubs, and has not been<br />
observed to open its wings on any occasion when settling. It perches on the underside<br />
<strong>of</strong> leaves to elude both the hot sun and the rain. This is a migratory species.<br />
This butterfly is commonly found in open vegetation such as grasslands and home<br />
gardens. Although they dislike forests, they can be seen in lit up forest paths with<br />
herbaceous flowers. It is commonly distributed throughout the country, but the<br />
number is quite low in the highest hills.<br />
The sexes are alike. The shape <strong>of</strong> the outer margin is not completely rounded on its<br />
hind wing and is wavy on fore wing. The irregular black outer margin on the upper<br />
surface <strong>of</strong> its forewing is slightly different to that <strong>of</strong> the previous species. The hind wing<br />
has a thin black outer margin. Its underside is usually heavily marked in comparison to<br />
the previous species and its cell end patches are larger and have a yellow area in the<br />
middle. The basal parts <strong>of</strong> the forewing cell have three black markings. They bare the<br />
chocolate coloured apical patch on the forewing more frequently than the <strong>Common</strong><br />
Grass Yellow, and this patch is also larger.<br />
Its behaviour is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Common</strong> Grass Yellow, except that males are<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten found mud puddling. Females lay eggs in large clustres and sometimes it climbs<br />
higher than its usual flying height to lay eggs.<br />
Although this butterfly is found in open vegetation, it requires much wetter conditions.<br />
Hence, it is more widespread in the wet zone. It is more numerous than <strong>Common</strong><br />
Grass Yellow along rain forests paths. It is less abundant in the hills.<br />
Pieridae<br />
LFPs: Many plants in the family Fabaceae including Senna alata (we;a f;dar),<br />
Pithecellobium dulce (ueks,d ishU,d) and Senna tora (fm;s f;dar)<br />
LFPs: Various Fabaceae plants including Cassia fistula (weye
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Nymph Idea iasonia<br />
Blue Glassy Tiger Ideopsis similis<br />
L VU E<br />
M VU<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
The sexes are alike, but there is great variation in pattern and size among individuals. It<br />
has narrow, elongated, but blunt tipped forewings. Both wings are silvery white with<br />
black veins and black patches throughout on both sides. Its abdomen is white with a<br />
broad black dorsal line.<br />
The most distinct habit <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Nymph is its slow, floating flight among<br />
trees at higher levels. This butterfly is seen to even casually fly among flocks <strong>of</strong> birds,<br />
since it is unpalatable to them. Several males go after a single female in their courtship<br />
displays in this floating flight, which is a gorgeous spectacle to behold. During these<br />
flights, males extrude yellow-coloured hair pencils from the backs <strong>of</strong> their abdomens<br />
that are capable <strong>of</strong> emitting a scent to attract females. This species never engages in<br />
mud puddling.<br />
This is a forest-loving species and is usually seen around bodies <strong>of</strong> water such as<br />
streams and ponds. Its usual distribution is confined to the forests <strong>of</strong> the wet zone, up<br />
to the lower highlands and intermediate zone. Some historical records show that it<br />
has also been observed in the dry zone.<br />
The sexes are alike. The background colour on the upper surface <strong>of</strong> its wings is black,<br />
while the underside is brown. The markings on its forewing are blue, while those on<br />
its hind wing are glass white. The differences in these colours are prominent on the<br />
underside. These markings are similar in shape on both the upper and lower surfaces.<br />
Its forewing cell has a basal streak and a large spot distally. Three other lines radiate<br />
from the base <strong>of</strong> the forewing with one thin line above the cell and two broad lines<br />
below.<br />
The Blue Glassy Tiger has a moderately fast, casual flight. It prefers to fly about 5 feet<br />
above the ground but readily comes down to the long panicled flowers <strong>of</strong> herbaceous<br />
plants for nectar. When they settle on these flowers, they adopt a hang-up position<br />
since the panicle cannot withstand their weight. They go to higher levels for basking<br />
and roosting.<br />
This butterfly can be commonly seen in both forests and verdant home gardens,<br />
but its distribution is restricted to the western parts <strong>of</strong> the country ranging from<br />
Negombo to Matara.<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
LFPs: Its sole LFP is Parsonsia alb<strong>of</strong>lavesscens (j,a w.=K).<br />
LFPs: Larvae have been successfully reared only on Tylophora indica<br />
58 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 59
M<br />
LC<br />
Blue Tiger Tirumala limniace<br />
Glassy Tiger Parantica aglea<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Female<br />
The sexes are similar in pattern and size. The pattern is similar on both wing surfaces.<br />
The upper surface <strong>of</strong> both its wings is black with blue markings. Its underside is<br />
much lighter in both background colour and markings. The forewing cell has a basal<br />
streak and an irregular distal spot. The patch below the cell is large and irregular, and<br />
occasionally separates out into parts. The hind wing cell is almost blue, leaving very<br />
little black. There is a line along the basal part <strong>of</strong> the second and third vein <strong>of</strong> the<br />
hind wing, which forms a ‘
M<br />
LC<br />
Plain Tiger Danaus chrysippus<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Tiger Danaus genutia<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Male<br />
Female<br />
The sexes are similar in both colour and pattern. The apex <strong>of</strong> the forewing is black<br />
with varied white patches on the upper surface, where some <strong>of</strong> them form a subapical<br />
band. The outer margins <strong>of</strong> both wings are black with minute white patches.<br />
The distal end <strong>of</strong> the hind wing cell and its upper margin has three black patches on<br />
both sides. The basal parts <strong>of</strong> the forewing are reddish-orange on the underside, while<br />
the other areas are orange in colour. The black sub-apical band and outer margins<br />
have white patches. The male has a sex brand below the second vein <strong>of</strong> its hind wing<br />
which is marked in black on the upper surface, and in black with a white centre on<br />
the underside. Two rare forms <strong>of</strong> this species have been observed; one lacks the subapical<br />
band and the other has a large white area on its hind wing.<br />
Its habits are similar to those <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Common</strong> Tiger. However, it is not a migrant species.<br />
This species is common throughout the country and its numbers are very high in the<br />
northern dry zone. It prefers sunny scrubland habitats, and is never found in gloomy<br />
forests.<br />
The sexes are similar in colour and pattern. This dark orange-coloured butterfly has<br />
distinct black lines along the veins on both surfaces <strong>of</strong> both wings. The apex <strong>of</strong> the<br />
forewing is black in colour up to the cell, and extends along the upper and outer<br />
margin, on the upper surface. Elongated white patches form a sub-apical band and<br />
further small white spots are present towards the margins. The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the<br />
hind wing bares a black band with two rows <strong>of</strong> white spots. The colour pattern <strong>of</strong> its<br />
underside is more or less the same, being paler on the apex <strong>of</strong> the forewing and the<br />
hind wing. The male has an additional patch below the second vein on both sides <strong>of</strong><br />
the hind wing revealing the sex brand.<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Tiger has a moderately fast but careless flight. It prefers to fly at scrub<br />
level and also descends to flowers <strong>of</strong> herbs. Males congregate at plants that provide<br />
toxins. This is a migratory species.<br />
This butterfly is common in the lowlands <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>, both in the wet and dry zones,<br />
but are never as numerous as Plain Tigers. It is rarely seen in the hills.<br />
Male<br />
Male<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
LFPs: Apocynaceae plants including Calotropis gigantea (jrd), Cynanchum tunicatum<br />
(lka l=U,), Pergularia daemia<br />
LFPs: Apocynaceae plants including Cynanchum tunicatum (lka l=U,), Oxystelma<br />
esculentum and Pentatropis capensis<br />
62 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 63
M<br />
LC<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Crow Euploea core<br />
Brown King Crow Euploea klugii<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Male<br />
The sexes are similar except for the sex brands. The upper side is dark brown and<br />
lighter towards the margins. The sub-marginal spots vary greatly, although the spots<br />
on the inner band are always larger than those on the outer band <strong>of</strong> the hind wing.<br />
The background colour <strong>of</strong> its underside is uniform and the sub-marginal spots are<br />
more distinct than those seen on the upper surface. Usually, the spots at the forewing<br />
apex are arranged in an arc. Both wings have a white spot on each cell. The male<br />
has a sex brand on the upper surface <strong>of</strong> its forewing in interspace 1b, resembling a<br />
single light-coloured narrow streak on both sides <strong>of</strong> the wing. Females also have this<br />
demarcation on the underside, even though they do not actually have a sex brand.<br />
The sexes are almost similar. Its upper side is brown in colour, which fades to a lighter<br />
shade towards the margins on both wings. The spots on the sub-marginal bands are<br />
variable, but the spots on the inner band <strong>of</strong> the hind wing are bigger than the others.<br />
Its underside is uniform in colour with prominent white patches. Occasionally there is<br />
a purple tinge on the patches seen on newly emerged butterflies. There are no spots<br />
on the cells <strong>of</strong> both wings. The male has an oval-shaped sex brand on interspace 1b <strong>of</strong><br />
the forewing, and it is demarcated by a purple-tinged patch on the underside, which<br />
is also found in females. Males bare a large pale creamy patch on the upper surface <strong>of</strong><br />
the hind wing which is usually covered by the forewing.<br />
Female<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Like other Danaids, the <strong>Common</strong> Crow’s flight is moderately fast and males congregate<br />
at plants which provide toxins. This is a migratory species.<br />
This migratory species behaves like the <strong>Common</strong> crow in well-lit environments. It is<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten difficult to differentiate the species from others when they are flying together.<br />
This species is numerous in the dry zone and depend on open vegetation to feed<br />
and search for mates. They also gather in large numbers in gloomy forests during dry<br />
spells in the dry zone.<br />
LFPs: 28 species <strong>of</strong> plants in the country including Hemidesmus indicus (bruqiq), Ficus<br />
religiosa (fnda) and Cryptolepis buchananii (je,a rela w;a;k)<br />
It prefers open vegetation such as scrublands and reservoir beds. Females can be seen<br />
in the undergrowth <strong>of</strong> the forest to find suitable plants to lay eggs. Its main breeding<br />
grounds are in the dry zone, but they appear in the wet zone during migration where<br />
it occasionally forms breeding colonies.<br />
LFPs: It is only found to feed on Streblus asper (ks;=,a,) up to now.<br />
64 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 65
S<br />
LC<br />
Rustic Cupha erymanthis<br />
Leopard Phalanta phalantha<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
The sexes are alike. A lighter median band can be distinguished on the upper side <strong>of</strong><br />
the forewing in this variously orange-tinged butterfly. The forewing apex and outer<br />
margin are dark brown in colour. Both wings are marked in various patterns <strong>of</strong> dark<br />
brown, which are more numerous on the hind wing. The colour and pattern <strong>of</strong> its<br />
underside vary to a great extent. The under surface is always lighter in colour than<br />
the upper surface. The numbers <strong>of</strong> white markings varies, and are sometimes entirely<br />
absent on the forewing. These markings form an irregular band. Its eyes have a pale<br />
greenish-yellow tinge.<br />
The Rustic prefers to bask with its wings partially open in sun beams which filter down<br />
through the canopy to the shrubbery <strong>of</strong> forest. Males suck on minerals from sand<br />
beds in streams but are not fond <strong>of</strong> mud patches. This is a migratory species.<br />
This is a forest-loving species and appears regularly, but not in great numbers, in those<br />
habitats in the wet and intermediate zones. It is also appears in verdant gardens in the<br />
vicinity <strong>of</strong> forests. It is rarely seen in the hill country.<br />
The sexes are alike. The background colour <strong>of</strong> its upper surface is uniformly orange and<br />
variously marked in dark brown patches and streaks which are scattered throughout<br />
the wings. The outer margins and forewing apex are not entirely coloured in dark<br />
brown. The colour and pattern <strong>of</strong> the underside vary. The background colour takes on<br />
various shades <strong>of</strong> pale orange, with a purplish tinge apparent in some newly emerged<br />
individuals. Some individuals also have a median band <strong>of</strong> diffused white patches on<br />
the hind wing. Its eyes are grey coloured.<br />
Both sexes <strong>of</strong> the Leopard are frequently seen busily flying around its larval food<br />
plants. Females are more sedentary and hang around these plants due to the ease <strong>of</strong><br />
access to lay eggs. Males come to these trees in search <strong>of</strong> mates. During these visits,<br />
males are able to even mate with newly-emerged females who are not yet ready to fly.<br />
Males also gather on the wet soil <strong>of</strong> sand beds. This is a migrant species.<br />
This butterfly can be found in sparsely wooded gardens and scrublands. It is common<br />
throughout the island, becoming scarce towards the highest hills.<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
LFPs: Scolopia acuminata (lgq flkao), Homalium ceylanicum(weg fyr,sh), Flacourtia<br />
jangomas (rg W.=/iai)<br />
LFPs: Salicaceae plants including Flacourtia indica (W.=/iai), Flacourtia jangomas (rg<br />
W.=/iai), Dovyalis hebecarpa (legô,a,)<br />
66 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 67
M<br />
LC<br />
Tamil Yeoman Cirrochroa thais<br />
Indian Fritillary Argynnis hyperbius<br />
M<br />
EN<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Both sexes are highly variable in size, colour and pattern, especially on the underside.<br />
The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing is curved inwards giving the appearance <strong>of</strong> a falcate<br />
apex especially in females. The background colour <strong>of</strong> its wings is uniformly orange<br />
on the upper side with a dark brown outer margin on the forewing. The hind wing<br />
has a thin dark brown outer margin, with two subsequent bands <strong>of</strong> wavy markings<br />
and another band <strong>of</strong> spot markings. The white patch on the upper margin is usually<br />
covered by the forewing. Its underside is tinged in various shades <strong>of</strong> brownish orange.<br />
The extent <strong>of</strong> the white band varies greatly, being completely absent on the forewing<br />
in some individuals.<br />
The mating behaviour <strong>of</strong> the Tamil Yeoman is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the Leopard. Females<br />
lay eggs one top <strong>of</strong> another like a tower. Males gather on the wet soil <strong>of</strong> sand beds.<br />
This species is not very fond <strong>of</strong> flowers and prefers to the juice <strong>of</strong> overripe fruits and<br />
tree sap. It is a migrant.<br />
The male resembles a Leopard on the upper side, except that it has two rows <strong>of</strong><br />
bluish streaks on the black-coloured outer margin <strong>of</strong> its hind wing. The basal part <strong>of</strong><br />
forewing is rosy red on the underside with black markings. The apical area is marked in<br />
yellowish brown, greenish brown and white. The entire hind wing is marked in these<br />
three colours, together with a few black lines. The forewing is a rosy red at the basal<br />
end and bluish grey on the distal end <strong>of</strong> the upper side in females. It has a sub-apical<br />
white band and is scattered with black patches. The hind wing is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the<br />
male. The underside looks like that <strong>of</strong> the male except for the white sub-apical band.<br />
It is quite a fast flier and prefers the hot hours <strong>of</strong> the day. It is easily disturbed but<br />
returns to the same place after a while. Males are fond <strong>of</strong> mud puddling. Females<br />
descend to the ground, camouflaging themselves among the grasses in closed wing<br />
position. They also come to the ground to lay eggs on and around their herbaceous<br />
LFPs. Both sexes bask while settling on the ground.<br />
Male<br />
Male<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
It can be seen throughout the low country in forested habitats, being common along<br />
streams in the intermediate zone where its larval food plant grows abundantly.<br />
This butterfly breeds in the grasslands in the highest hills, and also visits adjacent<br />
wooded parks. Only a very few <strong>of</strong> its breeding habitats remain in the hills.<br />
LFPs: Hydnocarpus venenata (ul=,a)<br />
LFPs: Viola pilosa and Viola betonicifolia<br />
68 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 69
M<br />
LC<br />
Blue Admiral Kaniska canace<br />
Lemon Pansy Junonia lemonias<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
It has jagged outer margins on both wings. The forewing apex is more falcate in dry<br />
season individuals. The upper surface is black with a shiny greenish blue tint on the<br />
base. The brilliant blue band seen in the distal area is larger in females. There is a<br />
diffused blue spot at the upper margin beyond this band and a distal row <strong>of</strong> diffused<br />
spots on the hind wing. The underside is marked in shades <strong>of</strong> brown, black and grey<br />
giving it the ability to camouflage itself among leaf litter.<br />
The Blue Admiral never feeds on flowers and entirely depends on overripe fruits and<br />
tree sap. It flies quickly and very low in open spaces especially along waterways and<br />
goes up in forests for food and to lay eggs. It basks with fully opened wings in the<br />
morning. Afterwards, it settles with closed wings on the ground or on tree trunks with<br />
mosses and lichens. Males use the ‘wait and see method’ to find their mates.<br />
This butterfly can be found in both the wet and intermediate zones, but only appears<br />
in high numbers from the lower hills to the highest mountains. It is a forest-loving<br />
species, but also visits adjacent streams in grasslands such as in Horton Plains.<br />
LFPs: Smilax perfoliata (uy ln/iai), S. zeylanica (ln/iai). It probably also feeds<br />
on S. aspera in the hills.<br />
The forewing apex is more falcate in dry season individuals. Its dark brown upper<br />
surface is heavily dusted with brownish-yellow scales except for in the distal area <strong>of</strong><br />
the forewing. That area contains diffused creamy yellow patches. The forewing has a<br />
prominent ‘eye spot’ and another faint ‘eye spot’ towards the apex. A large and a small<br />
‘eye spot’ merged through an orange coloured outline can be seen on the hind wing.<br />
It has two sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> crescent-shaped markings. The colour and pattern<br />
on its underside vary, consisting <strong>of</strong> light brownish yellow and occasionally purplish<br />
tinges. The sizes <strong>of</strong> the spots in the distal row vary, and are sometimes absent.<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> the Lemon Pansy’s activities take place close to the ground. It feeds on the<br />
flowers <strong>of</strong> herbs and small shrubs. Males use the ‘wait and see method’ to find mates<br />
but they perch on a low place like a boulder on the ground. Females lay eggs even on<br />
bare ground after confirming that there are enough LFPs nearby. The colour pattern<br />
on their undersides allows them to camouflage themselves. This is a migrant species.<br />
This butterfly is found abundantly in open vegetation in the dry zone. It is sometimes<br />
found in the wet zone, likely during migration.<br />
LFPs: Barleria prionitis (lgq lr~q), Hygrophila schulli (kSruq,a,sh), Lindernia rotundifolia<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
70 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 71
S<br />
NT<br />
Blue Pansy Junonia orithya<br />
Grey Pansy Junonia atlites<br />
S<br />
NT<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Male<br />
The size, colour and pattern are highly variable. The base <strong>of</strong> both wings on the upper<br />
side is jet black. The female has two short red lines and a blue line inside this black<br />
patch on the forewing. The apical area <strong>of</strong> the forewing is patterned in brown and<br />
light cream, changing into a brilliant dark blue towards the lower margin. Most <strong>of</strong> the<br />
hind wing area is brilliant blue with two sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> streaks, but sometimes<br />
this area is grey colour in females. Both wings have two ‘eye spots’ which vary in size.<br />
The upper ‘eye spot’ on the hind wing is the largest and it is usually concealed by the<br />
forewing. It is black in males and red in females. The underside consists <strong>of</strong> shades <strong>of</strong><br />
pale brown and it is lighter than in all other Pansies.<br />
The Blue Pansy flies quite fast and its habits are similar to that <strong>of</strong> the Lemon Pansy,<br />
except that it is not a migrant.<br />
This butterfly can be found in grasslands and scrublands all over the country and at<br />
a number peaks in the lower hill country. In the dry zone, it is never as numerous as<br />
the Lemon Pansy and is mostly found in muddy, waterlogged areas where its larval<br />
food plants grow.<br />
LFPs: Centranthera indica (ÿgq i;=gq), Lindernia pusilla, Justicia procumbens<br />
This species varies in size, colour and pattern irrespective <strong>of</strong> sex. The forewing is more<br />
falcate in dry season individuals. Its upper side is grey with a slightly reddish hue. The<br />
distal row <strong>of</strong> spots on both wings contains a few distinct ‘eye spots’; usually two on<br />
each wing. They are partially red and black, and outlined in a white circle. One such<br />
spot on the hind wing is usually hidden by the forewing. The forewing has four wavy<br />
brown bands on the cell and another long band beyond the cell. Both wings have two<br />
sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> streaks on each. Its underside consists <strong>of</strong> various greyish browns.<br />
The distal band <strong>of</strong> spots and dark brown lines are entirely absent in some individuals.<br />
The Grey Pansy’s habits are similar to that <strong>of</strong> the Lemon Pansy, but it is a much slower<br />
flier and the males prefer to perch on bushes to seek out mates.<br />
It is commonly found all over the low country and in fewer numbers in the hills. It is<br />
the dominant Pansy in wet zone home gardens and parks. Females are usually seen in<br />
larger numbers near abandoned paddy fields in search <strong>of</strong> plants to lay eggs.<br />
LFPs: Acanthaceae and Linderniaceae plants including Hygrophila schulli (kSruq,a,sh),<br />
Lindernia pusilla, Lindernia crustacea<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
72 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 73
S<br />
LC<br />
Chocolate Soldier Junonia iphita<br />
Great Eggfly Hypolimnas bolina<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Female<br />
The forewing apex is falcate and the anal angle <strong>of</strong> the hind wing extends to simulate a<br />
dried up leaf in closed wing position. The upper surface is chocolate brown with dark<br />
brown markings. The distal row <strong>of</strong> spots and two sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> dark brown<br />
markings are more prominent in the hind wing than in the fore wing. The colour <strong>of</strong><br />
the spots on the hind wing varies, sometimes giving a very distinctive appearance.<br />
The background colour <strong>of</strong> the underside is darker than that on the upper side, but<br />
it is unevenly washed out with whitish scales. The prominence <strong>of</strong> the oblique white<br />
line and row <strong>of</strong> spots on the hind wing varies. Usually females have one or two white<br />
patches on the upper marginal end <strong>of</strong> the oblique line, but rare individuals lack them.<br />
The habits <strong>of</strong> the Chocolate Soldier are similar to those <strong>of</strong> the Grey Pansy. It likes to<br />
fly in sunny open spaces in spite <strong>of</strong> its dark brown colour which can be used as a<br />
marvellous camouflage technique on gloomy forest floors. This is a migrant species.<br />
This butterfly is abundant in the scrublands, roadside vegetation, parks and forest<br />
openings. It is evenly distributed throughout the country.<br />
LFPs: Herbs and small shrubs <strong>of</strong> Acanthaceae family including Barleria prionitis (lgq<br />
lr~q), Dipteracanthus prostratus (ks,a mqrela), Strobilanthes diandra (fk¿)<br />
Male: The upper side is black with two elongated white patches on the forewing and<br />
one large rounded patch on the hind wing. These patches are surrounded by brilliant<br />
light blue scales. The brightness and intensity <strong>of</strong> these scales differs according to the<br />
angle <strong>of</strong> view. The markings on its dark brown coloured underside are highly variable.<br />
Usually the white patches on the upper side are represented here without the blue<br />
scales. The patch on the hind wing alters to a faint, oblique line in some individuals.<br />
The cream coloured markings on the outer margins are also variable. Female: The<br />
upper side is dark chocolate brown with creamy outer marginal markings on the hind<br />
wing that are also mirrored in the underside. Newly emerged individuals have some<br />
lustrous dark blue patches towards the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The underside<br />
looks like that <strong>of</strong> the male, but more <strong>of</strong>ten without the white patches.<br />
Females lay eggs on saplings or on surrounding surfaces after perching on the<br />
ground. This is a migrant species.<br />
The Great Eggfly prefers forested habitats, but females come to openings at the forest<br />
borders/forest edges to lay eggs. It is distributed throughout the country.<br />
LFPs: Urena lobata (wem,), Sida cordata (fij, neì,), Synedrella nodiflora<br />
Male<br />
Male<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
74 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 75
M<br />
EN<br />
E<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Blue Oak Leaf Kallima philarchus<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Sailor Neptis hylas<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Female<br />
The forewing apex is pointed and the hind wing is elongated at the anal angle to<br />
resemble a leaf in closed wing position. Most <strong>of</strong> its upper surface is shiny blue in<br />
colour. The forewing has a small light blue patch on a broad, blackish brown apical<br />
band. A light blue band runs along the interior <strong>of</strong> the apical band. The female has the<br />
same colour pattern, but lacks the brilliance. The female’s hind wing is also scattered<br />
with brown scales. The markings on its underside remarkably mimic a dried up leaf<br />
due to the unique enhancements in the shape <strong>of</strong> its wings. These characteristics vary<br />
across individuals and no similar markings are shared. A dark line runs from the apex<br />
<strong>of</strong> the forewing to the anal angle <strong>of</strong> hind wing in the likeness <strong>of</strong> the mid rib <strong>of</strong> a leaf.<br />
Both wings are marked in several dark and light patches to resemble fungi.<br />
The <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Blue Oak Leaf only feeds on overripe fruits and tree sap. Males perch on<br />
foliage in an opening at a stream to search for mates. This is a migrant species.<br />
The sexes look similar but the female is quite large. The upper side is blackish brown.<br />
A white streak commencing from the base <strong>of</strong> the forewing is followed by two white<br />
spots which form a band. A basal line on the hind wing together with patches on the<br />
forewing form a second parallel band. Rectangular patches on the hind wing make up<br />
a third parallel band. The marginal and sub-marginal white bands are fairly indistinct.<br />
The background <strong>of</strong> its underside is golden brown, with the white patches seen on the<br />
upper surface visible with additional faint lines in between. The scale-less dorsal area<br />
<strong>of</strong> its thorax has a greenish sheen.<br />
It has a characteristic sailing flight and is active during most <strong>of</strong> the day except early<br />
morning and late afternoon. It eludes the heat by resting in closed wing position<br />
during the hot hours <strong>of</strong> the day, for otherwise it is found with open wings. It feeds on<br />
both flowers and fruits.<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
This is an iconic butterfly in gloomy wet zone forests, only coming out in openings<br />
within forests. Its distribution extends to the intermediate zone and occasionally to<br />
dry zone forests along shady streams.<br />
LFPs: Strobilanthes species (fk¿) including S. lupulina and S. diandra<br />
It prefers sunny habitats such as parks, roadside vegetation, wastelands and scrublands.<br />
LFPs: This butterfly has the most number <strong>of</strong> LFPs in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> which are not even<br />
restricted to certain families <strong>of</strong> plants. It uses 30 plant species in 7 families. It includes<br />
Dalbergia pseudo-sissoo (nUr je,a), Trema orientalis (.evqU) and Urena lobata (wem,)<br />
76 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 77
M<br />
LC<br />
Commander Moduza procris<br />
Clipper Parthenos sylvia<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
The sexes are similar. The upper side is reddish brown. The cells <strong>of</strong> both wings and<br />
interspace 1b <strong>of</strong> the forewing have a red bar outlined in black. The prominent<br />
oblique white band depletes into patches towards the upper margin. A diffused band<br />
consisting <strong>of</strong> red and dark brown markings is present exterior to the white band. The<br />
dark brown marginal and sub-marginal bands are more pronounced in the hind wing.<br />
The basal area <strong>of</strong> its underside is bluish grey, and turns to greyish brown distally. The<br />
pattern is similar to the upper side, but lacks the red bar in the hind wing cell.<br />
The Commander is mostly dependent on fruits and tree sap, but also visits flowers. It<br />
feeds on the fruits <strong>of</strong> Melastoma malabathricum (uy fndaúáhd) along rain forest tracks.<br />
Males engage in mud sipping but never congregate. Females make a great effort to<br />
lay eggs at the tips <strong>of</strong> leaves, as it facilitates the related behaviour <strong>of</strong> the larvae.<br />
This forest-dwelling species can be found in sunny openings such as forest paths<br />
and streams. They are seen in gloomy areas, especially when searching for LFPs. It<br />
is distributed throughout the country but is more abundant in the lower wet zone.<br />
LFPs: Rubiaceae plants including Mussaenda frondosa (uqiaiekao), Wendlandia<br />
bicuspidata (jk bo,), Mitragyna parvifolia (ye
S<br />
EN<br />
Baronet Symphaedra nais<br />
Baron Euthalia aconthea<br />
M<br />
EN<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
The upper side is bright orange. The white colour <strong>of</strong> its cilia is distinct due to the<br />
contrasting black border on the outer margins <strong>of</strong> both wings. The spots on the submarginal<br />
row <strong>of</strong> its hind wing convert into an irregular line on the forewing. The<br />
other black markings on forewing vary. Its underside is more variable than the upper<br />
surface. The purplish tinge on its hind wing also varies. The white oblique band is<br />
entirely absent on its hind wing and is reduced in the forewing <strong>of</strong> some individuals.<br />
Each cell has two red patches outlined in black which are circular on the hind wing.<br />
The tips <strong>of</strong> its antenna and proboscis are yellowish in colour.<br />
The Baronet eagerly feeds on the juice <strong>of</strong> fruits. Dozens attracted to fallen berries can<br />
be seen under Drypetes sepiaria (ùr) trees. They are also attracted to human sweat.<br />
Males engage in mud puddling. These butterflies tolerate disturbances to a great<br />
extent when they are feeding.<br />
The tips <strong>of</strong> its antennae are reddish and its proboscis is greenish yellow in colour.<br />
The male is much smaller than the female. Male: The upper side has variegated<br />
brilliant metallic sheens <strong>of</strong> green that fade with age. The sheen also differs according<br />
to the angle <strong>of</strong> viewing. The basal parts are darker than the distal area and the outer<br />
margins are marked in greenish brown. Both cells have markings on dark lines. The<br />
white patches beyond the forewing cell vary. The underside is flushed in dull white.<br />
There are black lines on its cells and a row <strong>of</strong> sub-marginal black spots on both wings.<br />
Female: The upper side is brown with a slight purplish sheen on its hind wing and a<br />
green sheen on its forewing. The forewing has an oblique band <strong>of</strong> white patches. The<br />
underside is similar to that <strong>of</strong> a male, except that it has a white band on its forewing.<br />
The fast flying Baron eagerly feeds on fruits. They visit fruits both on trees and on the<br />
ground and flies at all the levels without any particular preference.<br />
Male<br />
Female<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
This is purely a savannah grassland species. It is quite common in those habitats<br />
during the rainy season but diminishes in numbers due to excessive man-made forest<br />
fires.<br />
This butterfly is common in home gardens since their larval food plants are commonly<br />
available. It is distributed throughout the country, but become scarce towards the<br />
hills.<br />
LFPs: Its sole larval food plant is Diospyros melanoxylon (îä fld< .ia$l=vqïfíßh)<br />
LFPs: Anacardium occidentale (lcq), Mangifera indica (wU), Nothopegia beddomei (n,)<br />
80 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 81
S<br />
VU<br />
Black Prince Rohana parisatis<br />
Nawab Polyura athamas<br />
M<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Female<br />
Male<br />
Both sexes have a falcate forewing apex. The tips <strong>of</strong> its antennae are orange coloured.<br />
Male: The smaller <strong>of</strong> the two sexes, its hind wing is elongated at the anal angle. The<br />
upper side is dark brown with a dark blue sheen that can only be seen at a certain<br />
angle. The three or four minute spots near the apex <strong>of</strong> the forewing are the only<br />
markings on the upper surface. The underside takes on various shades <strong>of</strong> brown<br />
ranging from red to black. Apical white spots are also present on this surface. Female:<br />
The upper side is yellowish orange. The bases <strong>of</strong> both wings and the apex <strong>of</strong> the<br />
forewing have black dustings leaving a brighter band in between. Minute white spots<br />
are present near the apex. The underside is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the male, but is less vivid.<br />
This butterfly is fond <strong>of</strong> feeding on fruits. Males engage in mud sipping. It is very<br />
difficult to locate the male when it is perched on the ground among leaf litter with its<br />
wings spread flat. Males perch on foliage at openings to look for females.<br />
Females have much longer tails. The upper side is brownish-black with large sulphur<br />
yellow areas in the middle continuing through both wings. The two sub-apical spots,<br />
the row <strong>of</strong> sub-marginal spots on the hind wing and the tornal markings are the same<br />
colour. Its tails are dusted with a light blue tint. The underside takes on cryptic brown<br />
colours ranging from rosy brown basally to golden brown distally. Its sulphur yellow<br />
markings have a greenish hue and are outlined in black in the basal end. A band <strong>of</strong><br />
brownish red markings adjoin the yellow band on the hind wing. A black line runs<br />
across both cells and the forewing cell contains two black spots.<br />
The Nawab is a very fast butterfly, flying amongst trees in search <strong>of</strong> tree sap and fruits.<br />
It also comes to the ground for rotten fruits and eagerly feeds on toddy dribbled<br />
under Caryota urens (ls;=,a) trees. It feeds on the faecal matter <strong>of</strong> otters which contains<br />
the undigested parts <strong>of</strong> crabs and shrimps. They engage in ‘hill topping’ .<br />
Feeding on sweat on<br />
a camera strap<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
This butterfly is uncommon in the highest hills, but is spread around the lower<br />
hills especially along streams where their larval food plant grows. It has an isolated<br />
population in the Monaragala Mountain.<br />
LFPs: Celtis timorensis (.=rekao)<br />
The Nawab is not abundant, but is a regular in dry and intermediate zone forests<br />
along streams with exposed boulders where otters excrete.<br />
LFPs: Acacia caesia (ysÕ=re), A. pennata(f.dv ysÕ=re), Ventilago madraspatana (hlv<br />
je,a).<br />
82 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 83
M<br />
NT<br />
Tawny Rajah Charaxes psaphon<br />
Tawny Coster Acraea violae<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Male<br />
Male<br />
The female is larger. The tornus and vein 2 on the hind wing extend into minute tails.<br />
Male: The hind wing and basal parts <strong>of</strong> the forewing are reddish orange. A large<br />
portion <strong>of</strong> the outward area <strong>of</strong> the forewing is jet black with a black line at the cell end.<br />
The black <strong>of</strong> the hind wing is not as dark as that <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The two silvery white<br />
spots at the anal angle are edged in black. The underside takes on various shades <strong>of</strong><br />
rusty brown, separated by irregular black oblique lines. Female: A broad, pure white<br />
band just beyond the cell <strong>of</strong> the forewing. This band faintly extends up to interspace<br />
6 <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. The silvery white spots are not restricted to the anal angle and<br />
continue throughout as a sub-marginal row in the hind wing. Its underside has a<br />
yellowish tinge which gives it a lighter appearance than the male.<br />
The fast flying Tawny Rajah travels at all levels through the forest. They only feed on<br />
rotting fruit, tree sap and faecal matter. Males are fond <strong>of</strong> mud sipping, but females<br />
are rarely seen on the ground. They engage in ‘hill topping’. This is a migrant species.<br />
This butterfly is not an abundant species is more likely found in dry zone forests.<br />
The sexes are almost alike. This orange-coloured butterfly has black spots throughout<br />
both surfaces <strong>of</strong> its wings. The spots on its forewing are larger than those on its hind<br />
wing. The black colour <strong>of</strong> the outer margin <strong>of</strong> its forewing extends along the veins.<br />
The hind wing has a broad, black outer margin, with a row <strong>of</strong> circular spots on the<br />
upper side. These spots are whitish in females and orange in males. The brightness <strong>of</strong><br />
the orange colour is reduced due to the white dustings on its underside. The pattern<br />
is the same as on the upper surface, except that the spots on the outer margin <strong>of</strong> the<br />
hind wing are bigger and white in colour in both sexes. This butterfly sheds its scales<br />
giving its wings a transparent look as it becomes older.<br />
It is a slow, casual flier. It is fond <strong>of</strong> flying close to the ground and prefers to feed<br />
on herbaceous flowers such as Tridax procumbens. Adult females have different<br />
preferences in LFPs selection, depending on the region. It joins with migration.<br />
This species is commonly found all over the country amidst road side vegetation,<br />
scrublands, wastelands and parks.<br />
Female<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
LFPs: Dalbergia pseudo-sissoo (nUr je,a), Entada rheedii (mqiaje,a), Croton laccifer (.ia<br />
lemafmÜáhd).<br />
LFPs: Although it has only a few plants, they belong to different families. Plants<br />
include Hybanthus enneaspermus, Passiflora foetida (mv je,a) and Ipomoea indica.<br />
84 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 85
M<br />
LC<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Evening Brown Melanitis leda<br />
Tamil Tree Brown Lethe drypetis<br />
S<br />
EN<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Wet Season Form<br />
Dry Season Form<br />
There are two distinct seasonal forms. The dry season form has a noticeably falcate<br />
forewing apex. In both forms, it is more pronounced in the female. Wet season form:<br />
The upper side is dull brown. The forewing has two ‘eye spots’ near the apex marked<br />
in black with a bluish white centre. These spots touch each other and one is distinctly<br />
large. The hind wing has two more clearly marked and separate ‘eye spots’ between<br />
the tornus and the anal angle. The creamy underside is heavily mottled in dark brown.<br />
The sub-marginal spots are more prominent on the hind wing and are always outlined<br />
by a golden yellow ring. Dry season form: the ‘eye spots’ on the upper side <strong>of</strong> hind<br />
wing are reduced or absent. The underside is highly variable, ranging from creamy<br />
brown to dark brown with or without sporadic blackish patches and the ‘eye spots’<br />
highly reduced. Intermediate colour forms also occur.<br />
The <strong>Common</strong> Evening Brown is only active at dusk and dawn. It prefers to dwell on<br />
the thicket floor. It feeds on rotting fruits and tree sap.<br />
This butterfly is commonly found all over the country in every type <strong>of</strong> gloomy habitat<br />
ranging from forests to home gardens.<br />
The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing is serrated making a short tail at the tornus. Male:<br />
Dark brown on the upper side with a few small, black sub-marginal spots on the<br />
hind wing. The underside is dark brown, clouded with a purplish tinge. The spots on<br />
interspaces 2 and 6 on the hind wing are equally large and rounded. The other ‘eye<br />
spots’ are not rounded and have minute white spots throughout the black centre. The<br />
‘eye spots’ on the forewing lack the golden brown rings. Female: A large portion <strong>of</strong> the<br />
distal parts <strong>of</strong> the forewing is darker than the basal area on the upper surface, and has<br />
two dull, white oblique bands. The black spots on its hind wing are more pronounced.<br />
The underside is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the male except for the reduced intensity <strong>of</strong> the<br />
purple scales, and the broad, irregular, oblique band across the forewing.<br />
The Tamil Tree Brown depends on rotting fruits and tree sap. It occasionally opens its<br />
wings to bask on cool days.<br />
This forest-dwelling species is found under the shade <strong>of</strong> thickets, especially around<br />
bamboo plants. It is a hill country butterfly, but declines in numbers at the highest<br />
levels <strong>of</strong> elevation giving space to the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Brown.<br />
Female<br />
Male<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
LFPs: Oryza sativa (f.dhï), Panicum maximum (.sks lS/iai), Setaria barbata.<br />
LFPs: Davidsea attenuata, Bambusa vulgaris (WK), Dendrocalamus giganteus<br />
86 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 87
M<br />
LC<br />
E<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Brown Lethe daretis<br />
Medus Brown Orsotriaena medus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Male<br />
Female<br />
The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing is serrated, forming a short tail at the tornus. Male:<br />
Dark brown on the upper surface with a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> small black spots on the<br />
hind wing and a few yellowish brown patches near the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing.<br />
The underside is dark brown in colour and clouded with purplish scales. All the ‘eye<br />
spots’ on the hind wing are rounded. There is no marked difference in size between<br />
the ‘eye spots’ on interspace 2 and 6 in relation to the others, while the ‘eye spots’ on<br />
the forewing lack a yellowish outer ring. The forewing has an irregular, oblique white<br />
line beyond the cell. Female: The upper side resembles that <strong>of</strong> the female Tamil Tree<br />
Brown but the oblique line on its forewing is much more irregular and the row <strong>of</strong><br />
sub-marginal spots on its hind wing is outlined in diffused yellow-brown rings. The<br />
underside is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the male, but the oblique line on the forewing is wider.<br />
The <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tree Brown feeds on tree sap and rotting fruits. It uses the colour<br />
pattern on its underside to camouflage itself against tree trunks with lichens and<br />
moss. Unlike other Tree Browns, it comes out even during day time.<br />
This butterfly is only found in cloud forests in the highest mountains.<br />
LFPs: it has been observed that adults lay eggs on Arundinaria debilis<br />
The sexes are alike except for the sex brand found at the lower margin <strong>of</strong> the underside<br />
<strong>of</strong> the forewing in males. The upper side is completely dark brown except for the<br />
two rows <strong>of</strong> very thin white sub-marginal lines. They are far more prominent on the<br />
hind wing. The underside is dark brown with a broad, regular, oblique white band<br />
across both wings. Its margin is sharp towards the base and diffuses towards the outer<br />
margins. Both its wings have two large ‘eye spots’ each and the hind wing has another<br />
small ‘eye spot’ adjacent to the upper big spot. The blue iridescent rings fade with age,<br />
sometimes vanishing entirely. Sub-marginal lines are present as on the upper surface.<br />
The Medus Brown feeds on tree sap, fruits and other rotting matter found on the<br />
ground. It never climbs to tree tops for sap like the other large Nymphalids. It lives in<br />
the shade under thickets, but comes out to grass patches more frequently than other<br />
Bush Browns. Its flight is slow and it always remains within a small area.<br />
This butterfly is common throughout the country. It does not go deep into forests, but<br />
is found in shady habitats.<br />
LFPs: Axonopus compressus (f.dx ;Kfld,), Oryza sativa (f.dhï), Panicum maximum<br />
(.sks lS/iai).<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
88 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 89
S<br />
LC<br />
E<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tamil Bush Brown Mycalesis subdita<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Bush Brown Mycalesis perseus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Dry season form<br />
Female - wet<br />
season form<br />
The sexes are alike except for the large light brown sex brand in males found on the<br />
underside <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The upper side is dark brown with a large ‘eye spot’ on the<br />
forewing in both dry and wet season individuals. Sometimes a small, faint ‘eye spot’ is<br />
apparent on the hind wing. The outer marginal lines are marked in light brown. The<br />
size and the number <strong>of</strong> the ‘eye spots’ on the underside vary. Usually the female has<br />
larger spots and the wet season form bears the largest. The four lower spots on the<br />
hind wing are arranged in a straight line. The area between the white oblique line<br />
and the outer margin has purplish grey dustings. The white band diffuses towards the<br />
outer margin more laxly than in other Bush Browns, but this is not always apparent.<br />
The sexes are alike except for the small black sex brand on the underside <strong>of</strong> the<br />
forewing in males, which is usually concealed by the hind wing. The upper side is dark<br />
brown. It has an ill-defined, variable ‘eye spot’ on the middle <strong>of</strong> the fore wing in its dry<br />
season form, but this feature is absent in its wet season form. The prominence <strong>of</strong> the<br />
‘eye spots’ on its underside is highly variable and the white line encircling the spots<br />
may be absent in some individuals. The four lower spots on the hind wing are placed<br />
in an incurved arc, leaving a larger gap between the wing margin and the spot, in<br />
the middle two. A white oblique band is present across both its wings, and is usually<br />
thinner than that <strong>of</strong> the Dark Brand Bush Brown. Females tend to have broader bands.<br />
Wet season form<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Habits <strong>of</strong> the Tamil Bush Brown are very similar to Medus Brown. It never moves from<br />
one shady location to another across an opened-up area during mid-day. If it wants<br />
to do so, it waits until the evening.<br />
It is found in shady habitats and occurs together with <strong>Common</strong> Bush Brown<br />
throughout the dry zone. It is fairly abundant in the north <strong>of</strong> the island and the<br />
savannahs in the Uva Province.<br />
LFPs: Axonopus compressus (f.dx ;Kfld,), Panicum maximum (.sks lS/iai).<br />
The habits <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Common</strong> Bush Brown are very similar to those <strong>of</strong> the Tamil Bush<br />
Brown.<br />
This butterfly is commonly found in shady places all over the country, except for in<br />
dense forests. Coconut plantations with thickets are a good habitat for this butterfly.<br />
LFPs: Various grasses including Eleusine indica (ne,;K), Oryza sativa (f.dhï) and<br />
Axonopus compressus (f.dx ;Kfld,).<br />
90 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 91
S<br />
LC<br />
Gladeye Bush Brown Mycalesis patina<br />
White Four Ring Ypthima ceylonica<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
The female is duller in appearance and bigger in size. The upper side is rusty brown.<br />
It has a black ‘eye spot’ with a white centre on the forewing. It is enhanced by a large<br />
crescent shaped orange-coloured patch just above the ‘eye spot’. The white patch<br />
near the apex varies in size. A bright-coloured patch is apparent on the cell end and<br />
extends towards the outer margin. The minute orange spots on the hind wing may<br />
be absent. Two marginal lines are distinct on the hind wing. The underside is highly<br />
variable both in background colour and pattern. The background colour is always<br />
paler than that <strong>of</strong> the upper surface and the ‘eye spots’ encircled in beautiful silver<br />
lines are very prominent. Dry zone individuals are much lighter in colour.<br />
It feeds on fallen rotting fruits, decaying matter on the ground, and flowers. It flies<br />
among shrubs and grasses in gloomy forests and it is easily disturbed. It occasionally<br />
basks under the morning sun with partially opened wings. When alarmed, it suddenly<br />
closes its wings and only flies away if the threat is still approaching.<br />
The upper side is greyish brown with a large white area on the hind wing. The<br />
forewing has a large circular black spot with two minute white spots inside and it is<br />
further outlined in a brownish yellow line. The white spots have light blue lustre in<br />
newly emerged individuals. The hind wing has two or three small ‘eye spots’ above a<br />
wavy sub-marginal band. The dull brown background <strong>of</strong> the underside <strong>of</strong> its forewing<br />
is striated in white, while the colours are inverted on its hind wing. Females expose<br />
more white on the hind wing. The forewing has a very large ‘eye spot’, while the hind<br />
wing always has four spots. The sizes <strong>of</strong> these spots vary.<br />
The White Four Ring frequently flies among grasses and rarely ascends to bushes. It<br />
feeds on grass flowers and also visits herbaceous flowers among the grasses. It flies in<br />
both shady and sunny conditions, and its flight is weak and slow. When it is alarmed,<br />
it suddenly opens up its wings to display the large ‘eye spots’. If the threat further<br />
proceeds, it flies into a thicket.<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
These butterflies can be found in shady places in the forest, but never in gardens. It is<br />
common in wetter parts <strong>of</strong> the island, but also appears in dry zone forests.<br />
<strong>Common</strong>ly found all over the country, their numbers are quite low in the highest hills<br />
and the northern region. It is an inhabitant <strong>of</strong> open vegetation and avoids forests.<br />
LFPs: Forest grass species including Cyrtococcum trigonum and Rilawal (ß,dj,a)<br />
LFPs: Grasses including Axonopus compressus (f.dx ;Kfld,), Cyrtococcum trigonum.<br />
92 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 93
M<br />
LC<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Palm Fly Elymnias hypermnestra<br />
Apefly Spalgis epeus<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Nymphalidae<br />
Female<br />
Male<br />
Male: Dark brown on the upper side with a broad golden brown band on the outer<br />
margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. This band is divided by dark brown lines along its veins.<br />
Sometimes, the forewing has shiny blue spots or streaks towards the upper margin<br />
<strong>of</strong> the forewing. A sex brand is visible along the hind wing cell. Its reddish brown<br />
underside is striated in grey-brown increasing towards the outer margins. There is a<br />
small white spot above the hind wing cell. Female: Its upper side resembles that <strong>of</strong><br />
the <strong>Common</strong> Tiger. Its basal parts are orange coloured, while the surrounding areas<br />
are dark brown. The forewing has a broad white sub-apical band and it extends in the<br />
form <strong>of</strong> spots along the outer margin. The hind wing has a distal row <strong>of</strong> distinct white<br />
spots. The underside is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the male but is lighter in colour and <strong>of</strong>ten<br />
reveals traces <strong>of</strong> white markings on the upper surface.<br />
Though the female mimics the Tiger, it never perches with open wings to expose its<br />
colour pattern.<br />
<strong>Common</strong> in open vegetation throughout the lowlands, it is abundant in coconut<br />
plantations.<br />
LFPs: Cocos nucifera (fmd,a), Areca catechu (mqjla), Caryota urens (ls;=,a).<br />
Dry season individuals are smaller. Males have pointed forewings, but otherwise the<br />
sexes look similar. The upper side is dull brown. The forewing has a white patch at the<br />
centre. The size <strong>of</strong> the patch varies to a great extent, being almost absent in some<br />
butterflies. The underside is a light brownish grey, and is marked with numerous wavy,<br />
dark brown lines. Its legs and abdomen are marked to suit the pattern <strong>of</strong> the wings,<br />
but its eyes are distinct due to their golden yellow colour. Its antennae project upright<br />
and forward and are set close to each other. It has long upright labial palpi.<br />
The tiny Apefly frequently flies around small trees and many <strong>of</strong> its typical activities<br />
including feeding and basking are done at this level. Females never perch steadily<br />
on plants to lay eggs, but instead dash to the plant to lay an egg and quickly returns.<br />
This habit allows them to escape the ants that tend to inhabit the places where they<br />
lay eggs.<br />
This butterfly is common throughout the country and is abundant in fruit plantations.<br />
It avoids both extremes: dense forest and vast openings.<br />
LFPs: Larvae <strong>of</strong> this butterfly are carnivorous and never feed on plant material. They<br />
entirely feed on mealy bugs (msá ul=Kd).<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
94 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 95
S<br />
LC<br />
Red Spot Zesius chrysomallus<br />
Yamfly Loxura atymnus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
Female<br />
Male: The two tails at the hind wing are almost equal in length. The upper side is<br />
bright red. The hind wing has some black patches near the tails. The underside is<br />
greyish white. Both wings have distal bands and irregular spots basally which are<br />
marked in dark grey and red. Two black spots capped in bright orange with blue scales<br />
between them are present near the tails. Female: The two tails beside the central tail<br />
are shorter. The upper surface is dull brown with varying, iridescent blue basal parts.<br />
The black spots near the tails are sometimes capped in orange. The pattern on the<br />
underside is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the male, but the red scales are almost absent.<br />
The sexes are alike. The hind wing tornus is developed into a long, curly tail. The upper<br />
side is bright orange with dull scales at the base. The forewing has a broad, black band<br />
commencing half way from the upper margin and goes across the apex up to the end<br />
<strong>of</strong> the outer margin. While the background colour <strong>of</strong> the underside varies, it is always<br />
paler than the upper side. It has a distal band <strong>of</strong> markings along both wings and some<br />
irregular patches located basally to the band. These markings are almost indistinct in<br />
some individuals. The tip <strong>of</strong> its tail is white in colour. The eye is prominent against its<br />
white body.<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
The Red Spot prefers to fly fast amongst trees but occasionally comes to lower levels.<br />
It basks in the morning sun with partially opened wings, usually at unreachable<br />
heights. It feeds on tree sap and visits flowers.<br />
It is never abundant and is distributed throughout low elevations, preferring gardens<br />
and parks but avoiding dense forests.<br />
LFPs: Psidium guajava (fmar), Cassia fistula (weye
T<br />
LC<br />
Monkey Puzzle Rathinda amor<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Silverline Spindasis vulcanus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
The central tail on its hind wing is longer than the two tails beside. The female is<br />
larger and has a rounded forewing apex. The colour on the upper surface varies from<br />
dull greyish brown to reddish brown. The white patch on the forewing varies in size,<br />
typically being larger in females and dry season individuals. The red patches near the<br />
tails sometimes extend towards the apex along the outer margin. Occasionally, black<br />
spots are present in between these patches and tails. The colour and the pattern on<br />
the underside vary. The hind wing and basal parts <strong>of</strong> the forewing <strong>of</strong> the female are<br />
entirely white in colour, with various shades and streaks <strong>of</strong> brown and yellow. Golden<br />
brown shades are prominent in males, with very little white. The brightness <strong>of</strong> the<br />
shiny light blue sub-marginal scales diminishes with age. Its tails are tipped in white.<br />
The Monkey Puzzle flies from shrub level to small tree level in a slow, bouncing flight.<br />
They like to feed on the sap at the pedicels <strong>of</strong> fallen Ixora coccinea (r;a u,a$r;U,d).<br />
Both sexes live around LFPs. <strong>Common</strong> in home gardens and other sparsely wooded<br />
areas, it can also be seen in dry forests where its LFPs are common in the sub-canopy.<br />
It has two hairy tails on the hind wing. The upper side <strong>of</strong> the male is dark chocolate<br />
brown, <strong>of</strong>ten without any shiny blue scales. Rarely, blue scales can be seen on the<br />
hind wing, but the colour is different to that seen among other Silverlines. The female<br />
is similar but is <strong>of</strong> a duller hue with some lead-coloured scales. The orange coloured<br />
markings on the centre <strong>of</strong> the forewing vary in both sexes and the patch at the tails<br />
extend along the outer margin in some females. The underside varies in pattern<br />
irrespective <strong>of</strong> the sex. They have red bands on a pale yellow background. There are<br />
silver patches embossed within these bands. The outer margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing is<br />
always red. The second red band from the outer margin is usually not divided by the<br />
black outline apparent on the fore wing. Bands 2 and 3 on the hind wing have a larger<br />
gap leaving a greater yellow area. Its abdomen is barred in red or black.<br />
It is a very fast flier, and is seen to dart among herbs and scrubs. It tolerates a lot <strong>of</strong><br />
disturbances when feeding on nectar <strong>of</strong> certain plants like Vernonia zeylanica (mqmq,).<br />
It is common in dry zone scrublands, especially towards the coast.<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> Ixora coccinea (r;a u,a$r;U,d) and leaves <strong>of</strong> Gomphia serrata (fnda<br />
lEr) and Dimorphocalyx glabellus (je,sjekak).<br />
LFPs: Cardiospermum halicacabum (fmfk, je,a), Senna auriculata (rKjrd). It has a<br />
great affinity with ants.<br />
98 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 99
T<br />
LC<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Shot Silverline Spindasis ictis<br />
Peacock Royal Tajuria cippus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
wet season form<br />
It has two hairy tails on the hind wing. The male is dark chocolate brown with a large<br />
shot-blue patch on its hind wing, extending up to vein 2 or very rarely up to vein 3<br />
on the forewing in its dry season form. The brightness <strong>of</strong> this patch varies according<br />
to the viewing angle. The orange patch on the forewing varies. The shot-blue hue<br />
is absent in females and traces <strong>of</strong> plumbeous scales are visible on both wings. The<br />
underside varies remarkably. While the outer margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing never has a red<br />
band, it sometimes has a sub-marginal band <strong>of</strong> the black spots. In wet season form,<br />
the background colour is pale yellow and its dull reddish bands are well-defined. In<br />
the dry season, the background colour and band colour take on shades <strong>of</strong> sandy<br />
brown, almost leaving no difference between the two. Intermediate colour forms are<br />
also common. The light-coloured abdomen is ringed in a mixture <strong>of</strong> black and rusty<br />
brown or only in rusty brown.<br />
its habits are almost similar to those <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Common</strong> Silverline.<br />
This dry zone scrublands species is abundant in the southern and northern arid zones.<br />
This is the only species <strong>of</strong> Royal with black eyes. The male has a shot-blue upper<br />
surface with a broad black apical band on the forewing. This black band extends along<br />
the outer and upper margin. The exterior margin <strong>of</strong> the blue patch on the forewing<br />
is irregular. The upper side <strong>of</strong> the female takes on a lighter shade <strong>of</strong> blue with a slight<br />
increase in brightness towards the forewing base. The exterior margin <strong>of</strong> its blue<br />
patch is regular. The blue on its hind wing does not reach the outer margin, leaving<br />
a black patch in between. It has a distal row <strong>of</strong> short, almost parallel, black lines. The<br />
underside looks similar in both sexes and is pure white with two black spots capped<br />
in orange near the tails. The light blue iridescence between these spots varies. Its<br />
distal band <strong>of</strong> black streaks is more prominent on the hind wing than on the forewing.<br />
The Peacock Royal readily comes to herbaceous flowers in open vegetation, but<br />
restricts itself to small trees in wooded areas. It usually selects high positions to bask.<br />
This butterfly can be found in any habitat where its larval food plants are available,<br />
except in dense forest areas. It is low in numbers in the hill country.<br />
Male<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Acacia eburnea (l=l=,a lgq), Senna auriculata (rKjrd) and Senna surattensis. It<br />
has a great affinity with ants.<br />
LFPs: Various Loranthaceae plants including Dendrophthoe ligulata, Taxilus cuneatus<br />
and Dendrophthoe falcata.<br />
100 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 101
T<br />
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Nilgiri Tit Hypolycaena nilgirica<br />
Large Guava Blue Virachola perse<br />
S<br />
VU<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Female<br />
The male is dark reddish purple-brown on the upper side. It has two black spots<br />
capped in orange near the tails. The female is pale brown. The black spots at the<br />
tornus are not heavily capped in orange as in the male. It has tapering patches <strong>of</strong><br />
white dustings above the black spots and in the adjacent interspaces. The underside<br />
looks similar in both sexes but can vary. The background is white with a black spot at<br />
each tail, as on the upper side. Both wings have a faint sub-marginal band <strong>of</strong> crescentshaped<br />
markings and a distinct distal band. The hind wing has a black spot near the<br />
upper margin and golden yellow wavy markings in the distal band at the bottom.<br />
It has another black spot above the cell <strong>of</strong> the hind wing, basally to the distal band.<br />
Males engage in mud sipping. Their flight is moderately fast and they visit flowers in<br />
hedges. They bask in the morning, but do not open their wings otherwise.<br />
It has a minute tail at the tornus and a circular lobe near the anal angle. This lobe is<br />
situated perpendicular to the wing when the butterfly is in closed wing position and<br />
acts as a false eye spots at the back. The male has a shiny bright blue colour on the<br />
upper surface <strong>of</strong> most <strong>of</strong> the hind wing and basal parts <strong>of</strong> forewing, while the rest is<br />
black in colour. It has a sex brand on the hind wing which is usually concealed by the<br />
forewing. The female is a more muted shade <strong>of</strong> blue and does not have the sex brand.<br />
It has a whitish patch beyond the forewing cell and a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> indistinct<br />
black spots on the hind wing. The underside has the same pattern in both sexes but<br />
the male has a purple wash over the background. It has a distal row <strong>of</strong> large spots and<br />
a cell end spot in both wings. A circular black spot is present in the basal area near the<br />
upper margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. ‘Eye spots’ are present at both the tornus and the lobe,<br />
with light blue scales apparent in between.<br />
Male<br />
Male<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
The cryptic Nilgiri Tit appears to be more common than we encounter. Their early<br />
stages are more prevalent. They inhabit forests and lush home gardens, especially<br />
those with orchids.<br />
LFPs: Flowers and aerial roots <strong>of</strong> both native and introduced orchids including<br />
Spathoglottis plicata, Malaxis versicolour and Vanda tessellata.<br />
It is a very fast flier and eagerly feeds on flowers <strong>of</strong> shrubs and large herbs.<br />
It is a dry zone butterfly who is found in any type <strong>of</strong> open vegetation, where its larval<br />
food plant grows.<br />
LFPs: Larvae feed within the fruit <strong>of</strong> Catunaregam spinosa (l=l=reudka$mqmqreuy).<br />
102 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 103
S<br />
VU<br />
Indigo Flash Rapala varuna<br />
Cornelian Deudorix epijarbas<br />
S<br />
VU<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
It has a minute tornal tail and a circular lobe at the anal angle which acts as a false eye<br />
at the back. The metallic indigo blue on the upper side <strong>of</strong> the male fades in to black<br />
towards the forewing margin, varying according to the viewing angle. The pale brown<br />
circular sex brand on its hind wing is usually concealed by the forewing. The female<br />
is a much lighter blue with a purple wash. The underside looks similar in both sexes.<br />
The background varies from pale brown in the dry season form to dark grayish brown<br />
in the wet season form. Its distal bands are much broader and more irregular than in<br />
its relatives. The cell end patch <strong>of</strong> the hind wing usually touches the distal band. It<br />
has ‘eye spots’ both at the tornus and the lobe and black and blue scales in between.<br />
The fast flying Indigo Flash prefers to bask at around 2.00 pm in the afternoon under<br />
beams <strong>of</strong> light that filter down through trees to the shrubbery. Usually 2-3 individuals<br />
participate in this activity together. It is fond <strong>of</strong> feeding on nectar from shrubs.<br />
It is found in forests and verdant home gardens. Though it is distributed throughout<br />
the low country, it seems to be more abundant in the wet zone than in the dry zone.<br />
It is not a regularly observed butterfly.<br />
The circular lobes at the anal angle <strong>of</strong> the hind wings act as false eyes, deceiving<br />
predators that come up from its behind. The eyes are distinctly large. The upper side<br />
<strong>of</strong> the male’s hind wing and basal parts <strong>of</strong> the forewing are deep shiny red. The rest<br />
<strong>of</strong> the forewing is black in colour. The hind wing veins are thinly marked in black.<br />
The upper side <strong>of</strong> the female is completely dark greyish brown with barely exposed<br />
forewing cells in a much darker hue. The underside is similar in pattern in both sexes,<br />
with a purplish sheen on males. Its distal bands are very broad and only merely<br />
marked in white outlines without any distinct separation in colour in relation to the<br />
background. Its black tornal spot is situated further inward towards the base, and is<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten completely ringed in orange in contrast to only a capping in Rapala species.<br />
The very fast flying Cornelian prefers to feed on compound flowers such as<br />
Chromolaena odorata (fmdäisx[af[daurx). It is <strong>of</strong>ten seen flying around small shrubs.<br />
This is a migrant species.<br />
It can be seen throughout the low country in scrublands and amidst other open<br />
vegetation but is not a frequently seen species.<br />
False head at<br />
the back<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Ziziphus oenoplia (ySka trñKshd)<br />
LFPs: Seeds <strong>of</strong> Cardiospermum halicacabum (fmfk, je,a) by boreing into the fruit.<br />
104 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 105
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Pointed Ciliated Blue Anthene lycaenina<br />
Pale Four Line Blue Nacaduba hermus<br />
T<br />
NT<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
Its cilia are pointed at the veins on the hind wing and extend into white, forming<br />
minute, short, stiff tails along vein 1 and 2. The upper side <strong>of</strong> the male is entirely<br />
coloured in dark, metallic navy blue except for the very thin black line along outer<br />
margins. The blue is restricted only to the base <strong>of</strong> the wings in mostly blackish brown<br />
coloured females. It has a few black spots capped in white near the hind wing tornus.<br />
The underside is similar in both sexes. It has two sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> cresecentshaped<br />
markings on both wings which diffuse into the lower part <strong>of</strong> the hind wing.<br />
The distal area <strong>of</strong> both wings is marked in white streaks, with distinctly separated<br />
markings on the cell end <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The black tornal spot is slightly capped in<br />
reddish orange. The other black circular spot at the hind wing is ringed in white.<br />
Males are seen mud puddling on gravel roads and even on concreted roads after<br />
rains. Females are rarely observed and are always seen on flowers <strong>of</strong> shrubs. It is a<br />
fast-flying butterfly.<br />
This butterfly can be seen in forest corridors throughout the low country. It is locally<br />
common in these habitats.<br />
The upper side <strong>of</strong> the male is shiny blue throughout. The tornal spot is faintly visible<br />
on the upper side. The blue <strong>of</strong> the female takes on a greyish tint and is restricted to<br />
the basal parts <strong>of</strong> the largely dark brown wings. Its black tornal spot is fairly distinct.<br />
The underside is similar in both sexes. The forewing has four bands <strong>of</strong> short white<br />
streaks which are narrow and well defined in comparison to other Four Line Blues. The<br />
hind wing has six rows <strong>of</strong> such bands which are not clearly separated. Both its wings<br />
have two sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped markings. These lunules in the outer<br />
row touch the marginal line. The black tornal spot is not particularly elongated and is<br />
capped in orange. Its antennae are striped in white, while the tip is completely black.<br />
Preferring to fly around bushes in the sub-canopy, they feed on flowers. Males<br />
descend to the ground for mud sipping. The females are usually sedentary and stay<br />
around their LFPs.<br />
These forest-dwellers are also found in disturbed forest-adjacent areas which tend to<br />
be a good habitat for its LFPs. <strong>Common</strong> in the wet zone, it extends its range to the<br />
intermediate zone.<br />
Female<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Immature leaves <strong>of</strong> Lepisanthes tetraphylla.<br />
LFPs: Immature leaves <strong>of</strong> Symplocos cochinchinensis (fndaUq).<br />
106 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 107
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LC<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Line Blue Prosotas nora<br />
Tailless Line Blue Prosotas dubiosa<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
The dull background is exposed through the numerous shiny dark blue scales which<br />
are dispersed throughout the upper surface <strong>of</strong> the wings in males. These blue scales<br />
are restricted to the base <strong>of</strong> the forewing and are also occasionally seen on the hind<br />
wing in females. The underside is similar in both sexes, with a high degree <strong>of</strong> variation<br />
in colour. Both wings have six rows <strong>of</strong> white streaks. The lunules are indistinctly marked<br />
near the outer margins <strong>of</strong> both wings in comparison to the distinct white marks seen<br />
in the six Lineblues. The black tornal spot is capped in orange and has some shiny,<br />
light blue scales. At one extreme, the background colour is a dull greyish brown, while<br />
it is brownish yellow at the other end. Intermediate forms are also present and some<br />
appear to be greyish brown, having brownish yellow only in between the white lines.<br />
It has no tails and its wings are more rounded. The upper side <strong>of</strong> the male is a slightly<br />
different shade <strong>of</strong> blue in comparison to the <strong>Common</strong> Line Blue. In females, the blue<br />
is confined to the base <strong>of</strong> the forewing. While the underside <strong>of</strong> both sexes are similar,<br />
there is some varition in colour and more in pattern. Both wings have six bands <strong>of</strong><br />
irregular white lines, especially in the outer pair <strong>of</strong> bands <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The pair<br />
<strong>of</strong> basal bands <strong>of</strong> the forewing extends below the cell. The bands on the hind wing<br />
are not distinctly separated. Usually, the cresecent-shaped markings are more distinct<br />
than in the <strong>Common</strong> Line Blue, but never as in the Six Line Blues. The black tornal<br />
spot is outlined in orange at length, sometimes to the point <strong>of</strong> a complete ring. The<br />
anal angle could have two minute black spots surrounded by orange and blue scales.<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
This species usually lives in groups. It flies at shrub level but climbs up to tall LFPs.<br />
Males frequently visit wet patches on the ground in numbers.<br />
Its habits are almost similar to those <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Common</strong> Line Blue and both species tend<br />
to occur together.<br />
This butterfly resides in a range <strong>of</strong> habitat types from wastelands to forests throughout<br />
the country. It is locally abundant around larval food plants.<br />
Its habitats are also similar to that <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Common</strong> Line Blue, except that they are less<br />
likely to be found in wastelands. This butterfly is distributed throughout the country.<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> many plants including Murraya koenigii (lrmsxpd), Acacia pennata<br />
(f.dv ysÕ=re) and Terminalia catappa (fldÜgïnd).<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> Albizia odoratissima (iQßh udr), Pithecellobium dulce (ueks,d ishU,d)<br />
and Samanea saman (mdfr udr).<br />
108 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 109
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LC<br />
Dark Cerulean Jamides bochus<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Cerulean Jamides celeno<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
In males, the upper surface is a dark, shiny metallic blue with a broad black band<br />
on the margins <strong>of</strong> its forewing. The lighter blue female has a smaller area <strong>of</strong> metallic<br />
sheen. The hind wing has a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> light blue crescent-shaped markings<br />
on a black background. The underside <strong>of</strong> both sexes is similar and it is darker than that<br />
<strong>of</strong> any other Cerulean. The prominence <strong>of</strong> the white markings varies, but is never as<br />
distinct as in the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Cerulean. The forewing has four bands <strong>of</strong> white streaks<br />
and the hind wing has a ‘>’ mark at interspace 1b. These features allow Ceruleans to be<br />
differentiated from other Lycaenids. The ‘>’ <strong>of</strong> this species is much deeper. It has two<br />
sub-marginal rows <strong>of</strong> blunt cresecent-shaped markings on both wings.<br />
If the Dark Cerulean is resting on a leaf, it always perches on an edge to stay alert by<br />
looking forward. It exposes its false head to predators that come up from behind by<br />
rubbing its hind wing.<br />
Though it prefers gloomy habitats, it is also abundant in bean plantations. Its migratory<br />
flights can be seen even at the highest elevations.<br />
The male is the lightest shade <strong>of</strong> blue in relation to other ceruleans. It is greyish<br />
blue in colour, while the sub-marginal areas <strong>of</strong> both wings are relatively brighter. The<br />
black outer margin is <strong>of</strong> uniform width along the forewing. The hind wing has a submarginal<br />
row <strong>of</strong> black spots. In the female, the black boarder is wider at the apex,<br />
and goes up to the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The hind wing has a sub-marginal<br />
row <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped markings. The undersides <strong>of</strong> both sexes are light brownish<br />
grey. Its two sub-marginal rows form continuous bands <strong>of</strong> straight, thick white lines.<br />
The marginal white band also forms a continuous line and is clearly separated from<br />
the outer sub-marginal band. Both the third and fourth white bands from the base <strong>of</strong><br />
forewing are regular. The ‘>’ on the hind wing is deep. The tornal spot is usually heavily<br />
capped in orange.<br />
Its resting behavior is similar to that <strong>of</strong> the Dark Cerulean. They feed on the nectar <strong>of</strong><br />
herbs and small bushes. Males visit damp patches on the ground for mud sipping.<br />
It is found in all the habitats, but is restricted to openings when in dense forests.<br />
Dry season form<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> many Fabacea plants including Gliricidia sepium (jeg udr$kkaÑ),<br />
Phaseolus vulgaris (fndaxÑ) and Millettia pinnata (uÕ=,a lr|).<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> various Fabaceae plants including Abrus precatorius (T,s|), Vigna<br />
unguiculata (uE) and Flemingia macrophylla (j,a W|q).<br />
110 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 111
T<br />
LC<br />
Forget-Me-Not Catochrysops strabo<br />
Pea Blue Lampides boeticus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
The upper side <strong>of</strong> the male is entirely coloured in forget-me-not blue. It has a black<br />
tornal spot. The basal parts <strong>of</strong> the female are a dull greyish blue. Its borders are dark<br />
brown. Its tornal spot is capped in orange and has a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> ill-defined<br />
cresecent-shaped markings on the hind wing. Though the underside is similar in both<br />
sexes, the back ground colour and the prominence <strong>of</strong> markings vary. Both wings<br />
have a distal band consisting <strong>of</strong> two rows <strong>of</strong> segmented white lines and a dark line<br />
in between. Similar patches are also present at the cell ends. The hook mark is always<br />
present on the distal band <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. The black spot near the upper margin<br />
<strong>of</strong> the forewing is roughly situated half way between the distal band and the cell<br />
end band. Sometimes this spot is absent. Two similar but more prominent spots are<br />
present near the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. The tornal spot is heavily capped<br />
in orange and black scales are present at the anal angle with some orange and blue.<br />
It feeds on herbaceous flowers. Occasionally, the males engage in mud sipping.<br />
Sometimes dwarf individuals are present. The male is purplish blue on the upper<br />
side. The veins <strong>of</strong> the forewing are marked in a lighter colour. The outer margins<br />
are narrowly bordered in dark brown. It has two black tornal spots, but sometimes<br />
only one is prominent. Varying amounts <strong>of</strong> blue is confined to the basal parts <strong>of</strong> the<br />
otherwise brown coloured females. Its tornal spots are ringed in white and diffused<br />
white markings continue along the outer margin. The distal band <strong>of</strong> white patches on<br />
the hind wing is diffused. The light brown underside has paired bands <strong>of</strong> thin white<br />
streaks. It is dark brown in between this pair <strong>of</strong> bands, with a broad white band in the<br />
centre. Its white distal band is pronounced on the hind wing. The black tornal spots<br />
have some light blue scales and one spot is distinctly capped in orange.<br />
It flies at scrub height and never goes higher. They bask in the morning but also<br />
do so around mid-day when the weather is chilly in hilly areas in particular. This is a<br />
migratory species.<br />
Male<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
This butterfly is common in herbaceous areas in the dry zone.<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> Tephrosia purpurea (.ï ms,$ ms,) and Tephrosia villosa (nQ ms,).<br />
It has breeding populations all over the country. It is fairly common in tea plantations,<br />
since its LFPs are grown as hedges.<br />
LFPs: Crotalaria zanzibarica, Ulex europaeus, Crotalaria pallida (wvkysßhd).<br />
112 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 113
T<br />
LC<br />
Zebra Blue Leptotes plinius<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Pierrot Castalius rosimon<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
It has a minute tornal tail. In males, the upper side is entirely shiny purplish blue. The<br />
dark brown background is faintly exposed through these blue scales. No markings are<br />
present. The female has some blue areas around its basal parts with broad, dark brown<br />
margins. It has a chessboard pattern on the forewing consisting <strong>of</strong> white patches<br />
on a dark brown background. This pattern is highly diffused on the hind wing and it<br />
has a distal row <strong>of</strong> ill-defined white cresecent-shaped markings. Its black tornal spot<br />
is ringed in white and the white rings continue along the outer margin leaving the<br />
background colour in the centre. Its white underside is marked in a brown zebra<br />
pattern on both wings. The shade <strong>of</strong> brown varies. It has a marginal row <strong>of</strong> white rings<br />
on both wings. There are two tornal spots, the upper one being the most prominent.<br />
These spots are capped in orange and have variable amounts <strong>of</strong> light blue scales.<br />
The Zebra Blue flies around low scrubs and herbs. It feeds on flowers. Males engage in<br />
mud puddling, sometimes in a group <strong>of</strong> up to a dozen.<br />
It’s found throughout the lowlands in scrublands, but more commonly in the dry zone.<br />
Both sexes are identical except for the smaller area <strong>of</strong> blue at the wing bases on the<br />
upper side in females. The pattern on both sides can vary. The cilia <strong>of</strong> both wings<br />
are alternately marked in black and white. Its outer margins are marked in black on<br />
the upper side with a row <strong>of</strong> white lines on the hind wing. The inward area is white<br />
with intrusions <strong>of</strong> black. The black patches on its underside are evenly distributed<br />
throughout the wings, without leaving any distinct patch-less areas. The forewing has<br />
a black basal line which continues upto its thorax. The patches on the sub-marginal<br />
bands are not apparent against the other spots. The sub-marginal spots near the<br />
tornus are suffused with brilliant, shiny light blue scales in newly emerged individuals.<br />
It is quite a fast but irregular flier, and flies around shrubs and herbs. It is fond <strong>of</strong><br />
feeding on nectar <strong>of</strong> those plants and does not feed on bird droppings like the<br />
Banded Blue Pierrot.<br />
It is commonly found in open vegetation up to the lower hills including wastelands,<br />
roadside vegetation and scrublands. In forests, it only appears in sunny openings.<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> Rhynchosia minima (uy j,a fld,a¨), Plumbago zeylanica (t< fkgq,a)<br />
and Aeschynomene americana.<br />
LFPs: Ziziphus oenoplia (ySka trñKshd), Gouania microcarpa, Ziziphus mauritiana<br />
(fonr$uika).<br />
114 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 115
T<br />
LC<br />
Angled Pierrot Caleta decidia<br />
Grass Jewel Freyeria putli<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Its upper side is dark brown in colour and the sexes are almost similar. It has a broad<br />
white transverse band on the hind wing leaving a very small area <strong>of</strong> dark brown at<br />
the base. This band continues half way up the forewing, forming a hook-like marking.<br />
White areas are usually more extensive in females, but also varies seasonally. The<br />
underside is white with large varying black patches. These patches include two angled<br />
markings at the upper margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing and another at the base <strong>of</strong> the hind<br />
wing. Occasionally, the band on the hind wing is reduced. It has a sub-marginal row<br />
<strong>of</strong> ill-defined lunules on the hind wing. Light blue scales never appear at the tornus.<br />
Males are found mud sipping along jungle tracks. They do not actively congregate,<br />
but join with other mud sipping butterflies. The Angled Pierrot is fond <strong>of</strong> feeding on<br />
nectar. Its flight is similar to other Pierrots and prefers scrub level. It is rarely basks and<br />
only opens its wings partially. This is a migrant species.<br />
This forest-loving species can be seen in sunny openings, but females go into the<br />
forest to lay eggs. A regular in the low country wet zone, it extends its range to the<br />
eastern intermediate zone up to Monaragala.<br />
It has no minute tail. The female is slightly larger than the male. The upper side is<br />
dark brown throughout with a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> circular black spots. In the female,<br />
these spots are faintly bordered in yellowish orange. The prominence <strong>of</strong> markings on<br />
its underside varies. Its most distinct feature is the row <strong>of</strong> circular black spots along the<br />
sub-margin <strong>of</strong> hind wing. These spots are ringed in orange and the amount <strong>of</strong> blue<br />
scales within them varies. Sometimes, these blue scales have a silvery appearance.<br />
Two bands <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped markings replace the sub-margin on the forewing.<br />
Both its wings have distal bands and cell end patches consisting <strong>of</strong> paired thin white<br />
streaks. The hind wing has five black spots ringed in white. Sometimes the one at<br />
lower margin is absent.<br />
The Grass Jewel flies amongst very short grasses and herbs. It is very difficult to locate<br />
due to its fluttering flight and small size. It is fond <strong>of</strong> the sun and even flies in the<br />
hottest hours <strong>of</strong> the day. It feeds on the nectar <strong>of</strong> low-lying plants.<br />
This butterfly is found in very thin, low-lying vegetation in the dry zone. These types <strong>of</strong><br />
vegetation are more abundant in arid areas. It is plentiful in its habitats.<br />
Male<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Immature leaves <strong>of</strong> Ziziphus rugosa (uy trñKshd) and Gouania microcarpa.<br />
LFPs: Indig<strong>of</strong>era tinctoria (ks,a wjß), I. linnaei (ìx wjß), I. oblongifolia.<br />
116 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 117
T<br />
LC<br />
Lesser Grass Blue Zizina otis<br />
Red Pierrot Talicada nyseus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
It has no tornal tails. The male is a uniformly purplish blue butterfly with dark brown<br />
outer marginal bands. The blue areas in the largely dark brown females are limited<br />
to the wing bases, being almost non-existent in some individuals. The underside is<br />
similar in both sexes, but shows some variations. Both wings have two sub-marginal<br />
rows <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped markings which are prominent on the hind wing. The distal<br />
band <strong>of</strong> the forewing consists <strong>of</strong> big black spots which are ringed in white. The spots<br />
in the hind wing band are small and dull. These spots are not arranged in a regular arc.<br />
Both wings have cell end patches and no other marks on the forewing cell.<br />
It flies very low, not more than two feet above the ground and feeds on the nectar <strong>of</strong><br />
very small herbs. It basks in the morning and becomes very active, but rests during<br />
the mid-day hours under the shade <strong>of</strong> hedges, only to come out again in the evening.<br />
It is abundant in areas with very short weeds in the low country.<br />
The female is slightly larger than the male, but otherwise both sexes look similar. The<br />
upper side is black with a broad red band on the outer margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. Very<br />
rarely this band can be in yellow in colour. The cilia are alternately marked in black<br />
and white. The patches on its underside are highly variable. Though the number and<br />
size <strong>of</strong> black patches on white area <strong>of</strong> the basal parts vary, both wings always have<br />
cell end patches. There are white patches in the broad red marginal band on the hind<br />
wing. This red colour only goes up to vein 6 and the band continues in black up to the<br />
upper margin. The forewing has two rows <strong>of</strong> white patches on the black outer margin.<br />
The cilia <strong>of</strong> both wings are marked alternately in black and white.<br />
The Red Pierrot flies quite slowly among herbs. It feeds on the flowers <strong>of</strong> these<br />
plants. Usually it is in closed winged position, but occasionally opens them partially<br />
when basking. Males engage in mud puddling but do not congregate. It is active<br />
throughout the day until late evening, but never goes into fully open sunny areas.<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Flowers and immature leaves <strong>of</strong> Desmodium heterophyllum (uy W÷msh,sh) and<br />
D. triflorum (ySka W÷msh,sh). <strong>Butterflies</strong> are numerous around these plants in flowering<br />
season since both the larvae and adults feed on them.<br />
It is abundant in rocky outcrops where its larval food plant grows plentifully. It is also<br />
attracted to home gardens with these plants.<br />
LFPs: Internal tissues <strong>of</strong> leaves <strong>of</strong> Kalanchoe pinnata (wlalmdk).<br />
118 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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T<br />
LC<br />
Indian Cupid Everes lacturnus<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Hedge Blue Acytolepis puspa<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Male<br />
Dwarf individuals are not uncommon. In males, the upper side on both wings is shiny<br />
light blue. The black outer margin is thicker than the upper margin on the forewing,<br />
but sometimes the upper margin has no trace <strong>of</strong> black. All the margins on the hind<br />
wing have black bands. In females, the upper side is dark brown with some dispersed<br />
greyish blue scales. Some individuals entirely lack blue scales. It has two black<br />
tornal spots capped in orange in the sub-marginal band <strong>of</strong> greyish blue, ill-defined<br />
cresecent-shaped marks. The colour <strong>of</strong> underside varies from pure white to buff white.<br />
It has two black tornal spots which are heavily capped in orange. Both wings have<br />
uniform distal bands and cell end patches consisting <strong>of</strong> narrow brown lines. On the<br />
hind wing it has two black spots near the upper margin, one on the cell and another<br />
one near the lower margin which is absent in some individuals.<br />
It prefers to feed on herbaceous flowers and males engage in mud puddling. Its flight<br />
is rather weak and it always flies near the ground.<br />
It is common amongst herbaceous weeds in habitats such as wayside vegetation.<br />
In males, the upper side is shiny metallic blue with black marginal bands. It has a thin<br />
black outer margin on the hind wing. Both wings have varied white dustings on the<br />
centre. The female has broad marginal bands and the blue is restricted to the bases.<br />
Its basal area brighter, becoming whitish distally. The hind wing has a sub-marginal<br />
row <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped marks. The underside is similar in both sexes and the patches<br />
are usually larger than in other Hedge Blues. It has a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> distinct spots<br />
and an internal band <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped markings on both wings. The forewing<br />
has an irregular distal band consisting <strong>of</strong> thick brown lines and a cell end patch. The<br />
hind wing has many brown and black patches. It always has a small black spot at the<br />
intersection <strong>of</strong> 8th vein and cell vein which is located basally to large black spots.<br />
As the name implies, the <strong>Common</strong> Hedge Blue flies busily around hedges. It feeds on<br />
flowers and males engage in mud sipping. It is a migratory species.<br />
It prefers rather wet habitats such as forests and verdant gardens and it also appears<br />
in scrublands with sparse trees in the rainy season.<br />
Male<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
LFPs: Desmodium heterocarpon (we;a W÷msh,sh) – most preferable, D. uncinatum,<br />
D. triflorum (ySka W÷msh,sh).<br />
LFPs: Hiptage benghalensis (mqjla f.äh je,a), Bridelia retusa (leglE,), Schleichera<br />
oleosa (fldaka).<br />
120 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 121
T<br />
LC<br />
Malayan Megisba malaya<br />
Plains Cupid Chilades pandava<br />
T<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
The male is dark brown with a bluish tint on the upper side. It has white scaling on<br />
the centre <strong>of</strong> the fore wing, which is enlarged in its dry season form. The female lacks<br />
the bluish tint and is larger in size. The underside is similar in both sexes. It has sharp<br />
cresecent-shaped marks in its sub-marginal bands. The forewing has an irregular<br />
distal band consisting <strong>of</strong> greyish brown patches and has much darker patches along<br />
the upper margin. The distal patches on the hind wing are much lighter and thicker<br />
than those on the forewing. It has two similar sized black spots at the upper margin,<br />
another one at the cell, and others near the lower margin <strong>of</strong> the hind wing.<br />
Males are regularly seen on wet patches on the ground together with similar looking<br />
Hedge Blues and Quakers. It usually outnumbers these other species. Females are<br />
rarely seen other than when they are feeding on nectar or laying eggs. It only exposes<br />
itself to the morning sun and occasionally engages in basking with slightly opened<br />
wings and lives in the shade during the day. Its flight is fast in relation to its size.<br />
In males, the upper side is shiny blue with dark brown margins. Its black tornal spot<br />
is slightly capped in orange and has a marginal row <strong>of</strong> white streaks. The female has<br />
broader margins with lighter blue basal parts. Its tornal spot is distinctly capped and<br />
has a sub-marginal row <strong>of</strong> cresecent-shaped markings. The underside has two submarginal<br />
bands which consist <strong>of</strong> white lines on the forewing and white lunules on the<br />
hind wing. The black tornal spot is capped in orange and a similar looking but smaller<br />
spot is apparent near the anal angle. Its distal bands consist <strong>of</strong> dark brown lines which<br />
are outlined in white on either side. Both wings have cell end patches. It has five black<br />
spots ringed in white on the hind wing. Two <strong>of</strong> them are situated close to each other<br />
in the basal area at the centre. The spot at the lower margin is sometimes absent.<br />
This active butterfly feeds on the flowers <strong>of</strong> herbs and shrubs. Males engage in mud<br />
sipping, sometimes in large numbers. Both sexes congregate around LFPs when<br />
young shoots are available. They bask with partially opened wings.<br />
Female<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
It prefers shady habitats such as forests and lush gardens. The Malayan population<br />
greatly increases during the monsoonal rains in the dry zone.<br />
It is common except for in dense forests. It is abundant at Nilgala, where its LFP grows<br />
commonly. It is also found in home gardens where its LFPs are grown as ornamentals.<br />
LFPs: Flowers <strong>of</strong> Mallotus philippensis (yïfmß,a,) and Allophylus cobbe (fldínE).<br />
LFPs: Cycas revoluta (uvq), Cycas nathorstii (uvq).<br />
122 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 123
T<br />
LC<br />
Lime Blue Chilades lajus<br />
Plum Judy Abisara echerius<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Lycaenidae<br />
Female<br />
Dry season form<br />
It has no tails. The male is shiny blue up to the margins without any borders and<br />
patches on the upper side. In the female, the blue areas are only limited to the<br />
basal parts and is absent in some individuals. The hind wing has a sub-marginal row<br />
<strong>of</strong> white rings. The ring at the tornus is enlarged and surrounds a black spot. The<br />
underside is whitish brown and looks similar in both sexes. It has two sub-marginal<br />
rows <strong>of</strong> crescent-shaped markings on both wings. The black tornal spot is not capped<br />
in orange, as in the similar looking Cupids and has two other small black spots at the<br />
anal angle. Both wings have distal bands <strong>of</strong> golden brown patches outlined in white<br />
on either side. It has circular black spots ringed in white near the upper margin and<br />
around the base <strong>of</strong> hind wing. The dry season form has a cloud <strong>of</strong> dark brown scales<br />
in the distal area <strong>of</strong> the hind wing.<br />
This active butterfly usually flies around herbs and scrubs but occasionally goes much<br />
higher. It feed on flowers. When it perches or basks on a leaf, it always comes to an<br />
edge to have a better view <strong>of</strong> its surroundings. It is a migratory species.<br />
It inhabits thin vegetation such as scrublands and gardens and avoids dense forests.<br />
The hind wing is abruptly angled at the middle <strong>of</strong> the outer margin. The male is rusty<br />
brown with a brilliant sheen <strong>of</strong> metallic purple on the upper surface. It has two parallel,<br />
fairly indistinct lighter bands on the forewing. The inner band continues in the hind<br />
wing. The hind wing has two separate pairs <strong>of</strong> black spots at the sub-margin with<br />
an indistinct row <strong>of</strong> lunules. Females never have the purple sheen and the pattern is<br />
similar to that <strong>of</strong> the males but is more pronounced. The underside looks similar in<br />
both sexes. It is rusty brown with pronounced markings that resemble those on the<br />
upper side. Its black spots appear to have a dark blue metallic sheen at a certain angle.<br />
Their eye colour varies from golden yellow to bluish green.<br />
Its appearance is unique as it never closes its wings or spreads them flat, and always<br />
keeps them partially opened. It does a dance like movement on the leaves while<br />
feeding. It appears to leap when it flies from one leaf to another. It never flies more<br />
than a few feet away when it is disturbed, but is never easy to approach.<br />
It prefers the dark undergrowth <strong>of</strong> rain forests and its distribution extends to the<br />
intermediate zone with forest cover. Occasionally, it is found in the dry zone.<br />
Male<br />
Riodinidae<br />
LFPs: Limonia acidissima (Èjq,a), Citrus aurantifolia (foys), Atalantia ceylanica (hls kdrx)<br />
LFPs: Embelia ribes (je,a weô,a,), Embelia tsjeriam-cottam (j,.id,a).<br />
124 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 125
<strong>Common</strong> Banded Awl Hasora chromus<br />
Water Snow Flat Tagiades litigiosa<br />
S LC S VU<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
Its hind wing is angled at the lower portion <strong>of</strong> the outer margin. It is fairly indistinct<br />
because the wing has a long fold commencing from that point to the base <strong>of</strong> the<br />
wing. The upper side is totally brown in males with a sex brand on the forewing.<br />
The female has two white patches on interspace 2 and 3 <strong>of</strong> the forewing which is<br />
also visible on the underside. Females without these patches are also present. The<br />
underside is brown with a thin, diffused straight white band on the hind wing. Just<br />
beyond this band, it has a black patch within the fold which is partially visible to the<br />
outside. The forewing is slightly washed out in white scales distally. Sometimes it has<br />
a bluish tint in the basal area.<br />
Its flight consists <strong>of</strong> fast skips and jerks, <strong>of</strong>ten resting upside down with closed wings<br />
under leaves. It feeds on the flowers <strong>of</strong> bushes and woody vines. They gather on<br />
the flowers <strong>of</strong> Derris scandens. It is always hurries from one flower to another. Males<br />
engage in mud sipping. It is active even early in the morning and usually does not<br />
come out to feed during mid-day except in cloudy weather. It is a migratory species.<br />
It needs gloomy habitats to rest and open habitats to feed.<br />
The sexes look alike. It is brownish black on the upper side with a large white area on<br />
the lower parts <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. The size <strong>of</strong> this patch varies individually. The number<br />
<strong>of</strong> white spots on the forewing also varies. It has marginal black spots on the white<br />
area. The black spot at the margin <strong>of</strong> the white and brown areas is larger than the<br />
other spots. The brown on the underside is lighter and has more white on the hind<br />
wing. The pattern is similar to that on the upper side. The abdomen is pure white. Its<br />
thorax and head are pure white ventrally, and dark brown dorsally.<br />
It rests on the underside <strong>of</strong> leaves and keeps its wings spread flat. It comes out to feed<br />
on flowers in the morning and afternoon and keeps its wings spread flat even when<br />
feeding. It cannot suck nectar from cup-shaped flowers due to this behaviour but is<br />
able to exploit suspending flowers. Its jerking flight is fast but not as speedy as the<br />
Ceylon Snow Flat. It is a migrant.<br />
It can be found in high abundance in the hills. Its numbers are lower than those <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Ceylon Snow Flat at low elevations. It requires a mixture <strong>of</strong> vegetation types as the<br />
previous species, The <strong>Common</strong> Banded Awl.<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
LFPs: Millettia pinnata (uÕ=,a lr|), Derris scandens (l, je,a).<br />
LFPs: Dioscorea koyamae (lsß f.dak,), D. oppositifolia (f.dak,), D. spicata (f.dak,).<br />
126 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 127
S<br />
VU<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Hedge Hopper Baracus vittatus<br />
Indian Palm Bob Suastus gremius<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
Male<br />
In males, the upper side <strong>of</strong> the forewing is light creamy brown on the basal region.<br />
Sometimes it has up to two creamy brown spots near the upper margin. The hind<br />
wing is creamy brown with a broad band on the upper margin and a thinner band on<br />
the outer margin in both sexes. The creamy brown patch on the forewing reduces into<br />
few spots on the forewing in the female. The background colour on the underside is<br />
generally rusty brown interspersed with lighter coloured veins. The hidden area <strong>of</strong><br />
the forewing is dark brown and is sometimes marked with few creamy brown spots.<br />
The hind wing has a creamy brown straight stripe form the base to the outer margin.<br />
It hops among grasses and its flight is not quick. When it is basking, it spreads its hind<br />
wing flat and holds its forewing perpendicularly. It also feeds on herbaceous flowers<br />
among grasses in this position. It is not found among grasses under heavy sun light<br />
during mid-day. Males engage in mud sipping.<br />
<strong>Common</strong> in the grasslands at the highest elevations in locations such as Horton Plains<br />
and along the rail tracks in the hills, it is also found in ad hoc locations along forest<br />
paths in the low country wet zone.<br />
The sexes are alike but have some variations. It is dark brown on the upper side with<br />
scattered golden brown scales near the forewing base. The Hyaline white spots on<br />
the forewing are usually large but they can be small or very rarely even absent. It<br />
has a yellowish patch near the lower margin <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The hind wing has no<br />
markings. The dark brown background colour <strong>of</strong> its underside is not visible due to the<br />
grey-brown scales. The hyaline spots on its forewing remain even on the underside,<br />
and the yellow spot represented as a diffused white patch. It is easily distinguished<br />
from other similar looking Hesperiids by the black spots on its hind wing. The number<br />
and prominence <strong>of</strong> these spots vary significantly.<br />
It has a fast flight that is typical to Hesperiids and is fond <strong>of</strong> the sun and readily comes<br />
to flowers in scrubs. It can even feed on flowers with long corolla tubes since its<br />
proboscis is long. It lowers its head towards the flower until it toches the petals when<br />
the length <strong>of</strong> its proboscis is not adequate. When it is disturbed, it vanishes quickly.<br />
This butterfly is common in all types <strong>of</strong> vegetation except dense forests. It is quite<br />
abundant where coconut and other palms grow.<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
LFPs: Grasses including Garnotia exaristata.<br />
LFPs: Palms including Cyrtostachys renda, Cocos nucifera (fmd,a), Phoenix pusilla (b|s)<br />
128 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 129
T<br />
LC<br />
Chestnut Bob Iambrix salsala<br />
Grass Demon Udaspes folus<br />
S<br />
LC<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
Male<br />
Male<br />
The male is completely chestnut coloured on the upper side without any markings.<br />
The female is the same colour, but has a distal band <strong>of</strong> white spots on the forewing.<br />
The number <strong>of</strong> spots is variable. Its underside is also chestnut in colour in both sexes,<br />
except for the hidden area <strong>of</strong> the forewing which is dark brown. Usually the male<br />
has one or two very small white spots on both wings. The female has more patches<br />
and they are bigger than those <strong>of</strong> the male. Again the number <strong>of</strong> spots varies. Its<br />
abdomen, thorax, head and legs also take on the shades <strong>of</strong> chestnut.<br />
Though its flight is jerky, it is not fast as bigger Hesperiids. It basks in the morning by<br />
keeping its hind wing spread flat and its forewing perpendicularly. They are fond <strong>of</strong><br />
feeding on flowers <strong>of</strong> herbs among grasses. They come out in the morning and the<br />
evening. During the mid-day hours they fly under dappled sun light.<br />
It is found in all habitats with short grasses but is reduced in numbers in vast open<br />
areas. It is common amidst roadside vegetation which has shady trees nearby.<br />
LFPs: Various grasses including Axonopus compressus (f.dx ;Kfld,), Ochlandra<br />
stridula (ng) and Oryza sativa (f.dhï).<br />
The sexes are alike. The upper side is dark brown. It has scattered white patches on<br />
the forewing which are smaller in the distal parts than in the basal part. The hind wing<br />
has a large white patch on the centre. The underside is dark reddish brown which is<br />
somewhat obscured by the pure white scales that cover most <strong>of</strong> the hind wing. The<br />
margin <strong>of</strong> this white scaling continues up to its snout along the thorax and eye in the<br />
form <strong>of</strong> a straight line. The forewing is also slightly washed with white scales interior<br />
to the sub-margin. The white patches are the same as on the upper side. The dorsal<br />
area <strong>of</strong> its abdomen, thorax and head are dark brown.<br />
It has quite a rapid flight, but is distinct due to its pied colouration. When it settles, its<br />
wings appear to rotate around a hinge at its thorax. It is active at dawn and dusk, and<br />
in gloomy conditions. It feeds on the nectar <strong>of</strong> flowers that have long corolla tubes<br />
such as Tabernaemontana divaricata (j;=iqoao) which are inaccessible to other species.<br />
While it was considered a very rare butterfly in 1950s, it is now commonly seen around<br />
home gardens.<br />
LFPs: Zingiberaceae plants including Kaempferia galanga (ysÕ=re msh,s), Curcuma<br />
longa (ly), Curcuma zedoaria (wrkaly).<br />
Clearing the<br />
proboscis by its<br />
own leg<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
130 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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<strong>Common</strong> Grass Dart Taractrocera maevius<br />
Dark Palm Dart Telicota bambusae<br />
T LC S VU<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
The sexes are alike. It is dark brown on the upper side with some golden brown scales<br />
in the basal area <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The distal band <strong>of</strong> spots on its forewing discontinues<br />
at the middle and the spots are located marginally at that point. It also has three spots<br />
inward to the distal band. On the hind wing there is a continuous distal band <strong>of</strong> spots<br />
and a basal spot. The colour <strong>of</strong> all these spots varies from light yellow to white. The<br />
cilia <strong>of</strong> both wings are marked in a light colour. The dorsal area <strong>of</strong> its black abdomen<br />
is ringed in white. The colour <strong>of</strong> its underside varies from dull brown to golden brown.<br />
The spots on its upper side are enlarged on this end.<br />
Though the colour pattern and size make it look like an Indian Skipper, the <strong>Common</strong><br />
Grass Dart is readily distinguishable by its fast, zigzagging flight. It flies very low and<br />
near the ground feeding on herbaceous flowers. It leans and bends to any required<br />
angle to feed on these flowers. It is a common sight to see them chase each other. It<br />
is active throughout the day even in during the very hot hours.<br />
This butterfly is found throughout the low and mid country. It is found in weedy<br />
places that have both short herbs and grasses. It is common in coconut plantations.<br />
LFPs: Grasses including Axonopus compressus (f.dx ;Kfld,).<br />
It is usually smaller than the Yellow Palm Dart. The background <strong>of</strong> its upper side is<br />
dark brown in colour. Its orange coloured distal band and the band along the upper<br />
margin merge near the apex <strong>of</strong> the forewing. The sex brand is marked in a lighter<br />
colour in the space in between these bands in males. The orange colour <strong>of</strong> this distal<br />
band does not continue along the veins towards the outer margin as in other Palm<br />
Darts. The hind wing has a broad orange coloured distal band and another patch near<br />
its base. The cilia are orange in both wings. The underside is yellowish orange and it<br />
resembles that <strong>of</strong> other Palm Darts. The orange coloured patches on the upper side<br />
are slightly obvious here and have some black scales at their margins.<br />
The fast-flying Dark Palm Dart prefers to fly at scrub level and feeds on nectar and is<br />
active throughout the day.<br />
<strong>Common</strong> in wayside vegetation and other open habitats, it is also found in bamboo<br />
forests. It extends its range to the mid hills in the southern slope and to the<br />
intermediate zone.<br />
LFPs: Bambusa multiplex (a common ornamental plant in home gardens). Its native<br />
larval food plants are Ochlandra stridula (ng) and Bambusa vulgaris (WK).<br />
Male<br />
Hesperiidae<br />
132 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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5. Endemic <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
These species are not included in the previous descriptions<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Cingalese Bushbrown<br />
Mycalesis rama<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Jewel Four-ring<br />
Ypthima singala<br />
Endemic Species<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Rose<br />
Pachliopta jophon<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n One-Spot Grass<br />
Yellow<br />
Eurema ormistoni<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Palmfly<br />
Elymnias singhala<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Ormiston’s Oakblue<br />
Arhopala ormistoni<br />
Endemic Species<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Tiger<br />
Parantica taprobana<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Forester<br />
Lethe dynsate<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Clouded Silverline<br />
Spindasis nubilus<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Green’s Silverline<br />
Spindasis Greeni<br />
134 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Indigo Royal<br />
Tajuria arida<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Woodhouse’s Four<br />
Lineblue<br />
Nacaduba ollyetti<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Black Flat<br />
Celaenorrhinus spilothyrus<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Decorated Ace<br />
Thoressa decorata<br />
Endemic Species<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Pale Six Lineblue<br />
Nacaduba sinhala<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Cerulean<br />
Jamides coruscans<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Paint Brush Swift<br />
Baoris penicillata<br />
Endemic Species<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Milky Cerulean<br />
Jamides lacteata<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Hedge Blue<br />
Udara lanka<br />
136 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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6. Larval Food Plants <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Butterflies</strong><br />
As mentioned in the introduction, butterfly larval food plants play a very crucial role<br />
in butterfly population and distribution. If the density <strong>of</strong> butterfly larval food plants<br />
is high within an ecosystem, it will definitely bear a higher number <strong>of</strong> butterflies. If a<br />
larval food plant is restricted to a certain ecosystem, the butterfly dependent upon<br />
this plant will also be confined to this ecosystem. For example, The <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Rose<br />
(Pachliopta jophon) relies on Thottea siliquosa (;dmir nq,;a) as its sole larval food<br />
plant. This shrub is found in the undergrowth <strong>of</strong> low country rainforests as it requires<br />
a high degree <strong>of</strong> shade. Consequently, the <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Rose is also restricted to this<br />
ecosystem. The Crimson Tip (Colotis danae) is restricted to the north and northwestern<br />
parts <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> since its sole larval food plant, Cadaba fruiticosa, only grows in arid<br />
habitats.<br />
Abrus precatorius T,s|<br />
L<br />
Acacia caesia ys.=re je,a<br />
L/S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Presently, more than 450 species <strong>of</strong> butterfly larval food plants belonging to over 60<br />
families have been identified in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. This number includes both introduced and<br />
native plants, some <strong>of</strong> which are endemic to <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. Though some <strong>of</strong> these plants<br />
are very rare, there are a number <strong>of</strong> common weeds, food crops and ornamental<br />
plants which are readily found in our home gardens. Many <strong>of</strong> the native plants are<br />
also used for medicinal purposes, and the leaves <strong>of</strong> some others are commonly<br />
consumed. Sound knowledge <strong>of</strong> these plants will enable the reader to help conserve<br />
the butterflies that rely on them as larval food plants. Readers are also encouraged<br />
to avoid or minimise the use <strong>of</strong> pesticides within their home garden and allow some<br />
weeds to grow so that butterflies can reside in these spaces.<br />
The following illustrations depict the larval food plants mentioned under the butterfly<br />
species descriptions. They are listed in alphabetic order by species name, irrespective<br />
<strong>of</strong> family. Habits <strong>of</strong> the plants are given as follows.<br />
Acacia eburnea l=l=,a lgq<br />
S<br />
Acacia pennata f.dv ysÕ=re<br />
L/S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
G - Grass<br />
H - Herb<br />
S - Scrub<br />
T - Tree<br />
L - Liana<br />
E - Epiphyte<br />
S/T - usually grown as a shrub, but can be grown as a tree<br />
T/S - usaully grown as a tree, but can be grown as a shrub<br />
Actinodaphne stenophylla ksl ojq, S/T Aeschynomene americana H<br />
138 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Albizia lebbeck iQßh udr<br />
T<br />
Albizia odoratissima iQßh udr<br />
T<br />
Aristolochia bracteolata imai|<br />
L<br />
Aristolochia indica imai|<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Allophylus cobbe fldínE<br />
S/T<br />
Anacardium occidentale lcq<br />
T<br />
Aristolochia ringens ;drd u,a<br />
L<br />
Arundinaria debilis<br />
S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Annona muricata lgq wfkdaod T Areca catechu mqjla<br />
T<br />
Atalantia ceylanica hls kdrx<br />
S Axonopus compressus f.dx ;Kfld, G<br />
140 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Azima tetracantha<br />
S<br />
Bambusa multiplex<br />
S<br />
Calotropis gigantea jrd $ t< jrd<br />
S<br />
Capparis grandis<br />
S/T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Bambusa vulgaris WK<br />
T<br />
Barleria prionitis lgq lr~q<br />
S<br />
Capparis moonii reoka;s<br />
L<br />
Capparis roxburghii l¨ b,a,ka f.ä L/S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Bridelia retusa leglE, T Cadaba trifoliata<br />
S<br />
Capparis sepiaria<br />
S Capparis zeylanica L/S<br />
142 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 143
Cardiospermum halicacabum fmfk, je,a<br />
L<br />
Caryota urens ls;=,a<br />
T<br />
Centranthera indica ÿgq i;=gq<br />
H<br />
Ceropegia candelabrum<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Cassia fistula weye<<br />
T<br />
Cassia roxburgii r;= jd<br />
T<br />
Chamaecrista kleinii ìx ishU,d<br />
H<br />
Chamaecrista mimosoides<br />
H<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Catunaregam spinosa l=l=reudka$mqmqreuy<br />
S<br />
Celtis timorensis .=rekao<br />
S/T<br />
Chamaecrista nictitans<br />
H<br />
Chloroxylon swietenia nqre;<br />
T<br />
144 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 145
Cinnamomum verum l=re÷q<br />
S/T<br />
Citrus aurantifolia foys $ ySka foys<br />
S<br />
Clausena indica ó f.dx lrmsxpd<br />
S/T<br />
Cleome rutidosperma<br />
H<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Citrus grandis cïfnda,<br />
T<br />
Citrus madurensis kia kdrx<br />
T/S<br />
Cocos nucifera fmd,a $ ;eô,s<br />
T<br />
Crataeva adansonii ¨KqjrK<br />
T/S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Citrus reticulata ySka kdrx T/S Citrus x limon f,uka<br />
S<br />
Crotalaria pallida wvkysßhd<br />
H Crotalaria zanzibarica H<br />
146 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Croton laccifer .ia lemafmÜáhd<br />
S<br />
Cryptolepis buchananii j,a rela w;a;k L<br />
Cycas revoluta uvq<br />
S<br />
Cynanchum tunicatum lka l=U,<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Cullen corylifolium<br />
S/H<br />
Curcuma longa ly<br />
H<br />
Cyrtococcum trigonum ;Kfld,<br />
G<br />
Cyrtostachys renda<br />
S/T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Curcuma zedoaria wrkaly H Cycas nathorstii uvq<br />
S/T<br />
Dalbergia pseudo-sissoo nUr je,a L Davidsea attenuata ng S<br />
148 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Dendrocalamus giganteus fld< WK<br />
T<br />
Dendrophthoe falcata ms
Dioscorea oppositifolia f.dak, $ ysß;, $<br />
ls;,<br />
L<br />
Dioscorea spicata f.dak,<br />
L<br />
Drypetes gardneri weg ùr$.,a ùr<br />
T<br />
Drypetes sepiaria ùr<br />
T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Diospyros melanoxylon îä fld< .ia$<br />
l=vqïfíßh<br />
T<br />
Dipteracanthus prostratus ks,a mqrela<br />
H<br />
Eleusine indica ;Kfld,<br />
G<br />
Embelia ribes je,a weô,a,<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Dovyalis hebecarpa legô,a, S/T Dragia volubilis w.=K<br />
L<br />
Embelia tsjeriam-cottam j,.id,a S Entada rheedii mqiaje,a L<br />
152 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Ficus religiosa fnda<br />
T<br />
Flacourtia indica W.=/iai<br />
S<br />
Glycosmis pentaphylla fodvïmdk<br />
S<br />
Gomphia serrata fnda lEr<br />
S/T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Flacourtia jangomas rg W.=/iai<br />
T/S<br />
Flemingia macrophylla j,a W÷<br />
S<br />
Gouania microcarpa<br />
L<br />
Hemidesmus indicus bruqiq<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Garnotia exaristata G Gliricidia sepium jeg udr$kkaÑ S/T<br />
Heterostemma tanjorense<br />
L Hiptage benghalensis mqjla f.äh je,a<br />
L/S<br />
154 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 155
Homalium ceylanicum weg fyr,sh$,shka<br />
T<br />
Hybanthus enneaspermus<br />
H<br />
Indig<strong>of</strong>era tinctoria ks,a wjß<br />
S<br />
Ipomoea indica<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Hydnocarpus venenata ul=,a<br />
T<br />
Hygrophila schulli kSruq,a,sh<br />
S<br />
Ixora coccinea r;a u,a$r;U,d<br />
S<br />
Justicia procumbens<br />
H<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Indig<strong>of</strong>era linnaei ìx wjß H Indig<strong>of</strong>era oblongifolia<br />
S<br />
Kaempferia galanga ysÕ=re msh,s H Kalanchoe pinnata wlalmdk H/S<br />
156 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 157
Lepisanthes tetraphylla<br />
T<br />
Limonia acidissima Èjq,a<br />
T<br />
Litsea longifolia r;a lE,sh<br />
T<br />
Maerua arenaria<br />
L/S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Lindernia crustacea<br />
H<br />
Lindernia pusilla<br />
H<br />
Malaxis versicolor<br />
H<br />
Mallotus philippensis yïfmß,a,<br />
S/T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Lindernia rotundifolia H Litsea glutinosa fnda ó<br />
T/S<br />
Mangifera indica wU<br />
T Miliusa indica lels,s ueiai S<br />
158 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Millettia pinnata uÕ=,a lr|<br />
T<br />
Mitragyna parvifolia ye
Pentatropis capensis<br />
L<br />
Pergularia daemia<br />
L<br />
Plumbago zeylanica t< fkgq,a<br />
H/S<br />
Polyalthia cerasoides mÜg W,a flkao<br />
T/S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Phaseolus vulgaris fndaxÑ<br />
L<br />
Phoenix pusilla b|s<br />
S<br />
Polyalthia korinti W,a flkao $ ójekak S<br />
Psidium guajava fmar<br />
S/T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Pithecellobium dulce ueks,d ishU,d T Pleiospermium alatum ;=ka m;a l=re÷ S<br />
Rhynchosia minima uy j,a fld,a¨ L ß,dj,a G<br />
162 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
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Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum llal=gq<br />
m,d $ jg/iai<br />
H<br />
Salvadora persica u,s;a;ka<br />
T/S<br />
Senna alata we;af;dar<br />
S<br />
Senna auriculata rKjrd<br />
S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Samanea saman mdfr udr<br />
T<br />
Schleichera oleosa fldaka<br />
T<br />
Senna surattensis<br />
S<br />
Senna tora fm;s f;dar<br />
H<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Scolopia acuminata lgq flkao $ lgq<br />
l=re÷<br />
S/T<br />
Scurrula cordifolia ms
Smilax aspera<br />
L<br />
Smilax perfoliata uy ln/iai<br />
L<br />
Strobilanthes lupulina fk¿<br />
S<br />
Symplocos cochinchinensis fndaUq<br />
S/T<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Smilax zeylanica ln/iai<br />
L<br />
Spathoglottis plicata<br />
S<br />
Synedrella nodiflora<br />
H<br />
Taxillus tomentosus ms
Tephrosia villosa nQ ms,<br />
H/S<br />
Terminalia catappa fldÜgïnd<br />
T<br />
Tylophora pauciflora lsß w.=K<br />
L<br />
Ulex europaeus<br />
S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Thottea siliquosa ;dmir nq,;a<br />
S<br />
Toddalia asiatica l=vqñßiai<br />
S/L<br />
Urena lobata mÜg wem,<br />
S<br />
Uvaria macropoda<br />
L<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Trema orientalis .evqU T Tylophora indica<br />
L<br />
Vanda tessellata<br />
E Ventilago madraspatana hlv je,a L<br />
168 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 169
Vigna unguiculata uE<br />
L<br />
Viola betonicifolia<br />
H<br />
Zanthoxylum tetraspermum<br />
L<br />
Ziziphus mauritiana fonr$uika<br />
S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Viola pilosa<br />
H<br />
Wendlandia bicuspidata jk bo, $ rdjK<br />
bo,<br />
T<br />
Ziziphus oenoplia ySka trñKshd<br />
S<br />
Ziziphus rugosa uy trñKshd<br />
S<br />
Larval food plants<br />
Xylopia championii o;a leáh T Zanonia indica j,a rils| L<br />
170 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 171
References<br />
d’Abrera, B. 1998. The butterflies <strong>of</strong> Ceylon, Wildlife Heritage Trust, Colombo.<br />
Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) 1980 – 2000. A revised handbook to the flora <strong>of</strong> Ceylon, Vol. 1 - 14,<br />
Amerind Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi / Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi.<br />
Dias, R.K. S. 2002. Ants <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. Vishva Lekah Publishers, Ratmalana.<br />
Jayasinghe, H.D., de Alwis C. & Rajapaksha, S.S., <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n <strong>Butterflies</strong>, http://www.slbutterflies.<br />
com. (Accessed: 05th Nov 2013)<br />
Jayasinghe, H.D., de Alwis C. & Rajapaksha, S.S.,2013. A pocket guide to the butterflies <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong><br />
<strong>Lanka</strong>. Author<br />
Kawahara A.Y. 2013. Systematic revision and review <strong>of</strong> the extant and fossil snout butterflies<br />
(Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Libytheinae), Zootaxa 3631 (1): 01 - 74<br />
Kunte, K. 2000. <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> Peninsular India, Universities Press (India) Ltd., Hyderabad.<br />
Moore, F. 1880. The Lepidoptera <strong>of</strong> Ceylon, Vol. I, L. Reeve & Co., London.<br />
Moore, F. 1884-1887. The Lepidoptera <strong>of</strong> Ceylon, Vol. III, L. Reeve & Co., London.<br />
Ormiston, W. 1924. The <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> Ceylon. H. W. Cave & Co., Colombo.<br />
Robinson, G.S., P.R. Ackery, I.J. Kitchi ng, G.W. Beccaloni & L.M. Hernández. 2010. HOSTS - A<br />
database <strong>of</strong> the world’s Lepidopteran hostplants. Natural History Museum, London. http://<br />
www.nhm.ac.uk/hosts. (Accessed: 05th Nov 2013)<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten N., 2011a. New and revised descriptions <strong>of</strong> the<br />
immature stages <strong>of</strong> some butterflies in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and their larval food plants (Lepidoptera:<br />
Nymphalidae). Part 1: Sub-family Danainae. The Journal <strong>of</strong> Research on the Lepidoptera 44:<br />
1-16.<br />
van der Poorten, G. , 2014. Butterfly Conservation Action Plan, Biodiversity Secretariat,<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Environment & Renewable Energy. Battaramulla.<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten N., 2012b. New and revised descriptions <strong>of</strong> the<br />
immature stages <strong>of</strong> some butterflies in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and their larval food plants (Lepidoptera:<br />
Nymphalidae). Part 2: Subfamily Satyrinae. Tropical Lepidoptera 22 (2): 80 - 92<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten, N. 2012c. The biology <strong>of</strong> Spindasis greeni Heron,<br />
1896 and a review <strong>of</strong> the genus Spindasis in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). Journal <strong>of</strong><br />
Research in Lepidoptera. 45: 119 - 133<br />
van der Poorten, G. and van der Poorten, N. 2012d. Cephrenes trichopepla (Lower, 1908): A<br />
new record for <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> with notes on its biology, life history and distribution (Lepidoptera:<br />
Hesperiidae). Tijdschrift voor Entomologie 156: 95–101.<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten, N., 2013a. New and revised descriptions <strong>of</strong> the<br />
immature stages <strong>of</strong> some butterflies in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and their larval food plants (Lepidoptera:<br />
Lycaenidae). Part 1: Polyommatinae and Theclinae, in part. The Journal <strong>of</strong> Research on the<br />
Lepidoptera 46: 25–49.<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten, N., 2013b. New and revised descriptions <strong>of</strong> the<br />
immature stages<strong>of</strong> some butterflies in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and their larval food plants (Lepidoptera<br />
: Pieridae). Part 1 : Subfamilies Pierini (in part) and Coliadinae. Tropical Lepidoptera 23 (1):<br />
22 - 31<br />
van Nieukerken, E. K., Kaila, L., Kitching, I. J., Kristensen, N. P., Lees, D. C., Minet, J., Mitter, C.,<br />
Mutanen, M.,Regier, J. C., Simonsen, T. J., Wahlberg, N., Yen, S-H., Zahiri, R., Adamski, D., Baixeras,<br />
J., Bartsch, D.,Bengtsson, B. Å., Brown, J. W. S. R., Bucheli, D.R. Davis, J. De Prins, W. De Prins, M. E.<br />
Epstein, P. Gentili-Poole, C. Gielis, P. Hättenschwiler, A. Hausmann, J. D. Holloway, A. Kallies, O.<br />
Karsholt, A. Y. Kawahara, S.J. C. Koster, M. Kozlov, V., Lafontaine, J. D., Lamas, G., Landry, J.-F., Lee,<br />
S., Nuss, M., Park, K.-T., Penz, C.,Rota, J., Schintlmeister, A., Schmidt, B. C., Sohn, J.-C., Solis, M.<br />
A., Tarmann, G. M., Warren, A.D., Weller,S., Yakovlev, R. V., Zolotuhin, V. V., Zwick. A. 2011. Order<br />
Lepidoptera Linnaeus, 1758. In: Zhang, Z.-Q. (Ed.) Animal biodiversity: An outline <strong>of</strong> higherlevel<br />
classification and survey <strong>of</strong> taxonomic richness. Zootaxa 3148: 212-221.<br />
Vlas, J. & Vlas, J., 2008. Illustrated field guide to the flowers <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>. Mark Booksellers and<br />
Distributors (Pvt) Ltd, Kandy<br />
Vlas, J. & Vlas, J., 2013. Illustrated field guide to the flowers <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>, volume 2. (in<br />
preparation)<br />
Woodhouse, L. G. O. 1949. The butterfly fauna <strong>of</strong> Ceylon, Second Complete Edition, The<br />
Colombo Apothecaries’ Co. Ltd., Colombo.<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten N., 2011b., New and revised descriptions <strong>of</strong> the<br />
immature stages <strong>of</strong> some butterflies in <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> and their larval food plants (Lepidoptera:<br />
Papilionidae). The Journal <strong>of</strong> Research on the Lepidoptera 44: 111-127<br />
van der Poorten, G. 2012. The Taxonomy and Conservation Status <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong><br />
<strong>Lanka</strong>. In: The National Red List 2012 <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>; Conservation Status <strong>of</strong> the Fauna and<br />
Flora. Weerakoon, D.K. & S. Wijesundara (Eds.), Ministry <strong>of</strong> Environment, Colombo. p. 26–41<br />
van der Poorten, G. & van der Poorten N., 2012a. Catopsilia scylla (Linnaeus, 1763): A new<br />
record for <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> with notes on its biology, life history and distribution (Lepidoptera:<br />
Pieridae). The Journal <strong>of</strong> Research on the Lepidoptera 45: 17–23.<br />
172 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 173
Index<br />
Scientific Names<br />
Abisara echerius 125<br />
Acraea violae 85<br />
Acytolepis puspa 121<br />
Anthene lycaenina 106<br />
Appias galene 50<br />
Argynnis hyperbius 69<br />
Baracus vittatus 128<br />
Belenois aurota 48<br />
Caleta decidia 116<br />
Castalius rosimon 115<br />
Catochrysops strabo 112<br />
Catopsilia pomona 52<br />
Cepora nerissa 49<br />
Charaxes psaphon 84<br />
Chilades lajus 124<br />
Chilades pandava 123<br />
Cirrochroa thais 68<br />
Colotis amata 53<br />
Colotis etrida 54<br />
Cupha erymanthis 66<br />
Danaus chrysippus 62<br />
Danaus genutia 63<br />
Delias eucharis 47<br />
Deudorix epijarbas 105<br />
Elymnias hypermnestra 94<br />
Euploea core asela 64<br />
Euploea klugii 65<br />
Eurema blanda 57<br />
Eurema brigitta 55<br />
Eurema hecabe 56<br />
Euthalia aconthea 81<br />
Everes lacturnus 120<br />
Freyeria putli 117<br />
Graphium agamemnon 45<br />
Graphium doson 44<br />
Graphium sarpedon 43<br />
Hasora chromus 126<br />
Hypolimnas bolina 75<br />
Hypolycaena nilgirica 102<br />
Iambrix salsala 130<br />
Idea iasonia 58<br />
Ideopsis similis 59<br />
Ixias marianne 51<br />
Jamides bochus 110<br />
Jamides celeno 111<br />
Junonia atlites 73<br />
Junonia iphita 74<br />
Junonia lemonias 71<br />
Junonia orithya 72<br />
Kallima philarchus 76<br />
Kaniska canace 70<br />
Lampides boeticus 113<br />
Leptosia nina 46<br />
Leptotes plinius 114<br />
Lethe daretis 88<br />
Lethe drypetis 87<br />
Loxura atymnus 97<br />
Megisba malaya 122<br />
Melanitis leda 86<br />
Moduza procris 78<br />
Mycalesis patnia 92<br />
Mycalesis perseus 91<br />
Mycalesis subdita 90<br />
Nacaduba hermus 107<br />
Neptis hylas 77<br />
Orsotriaena medus 89<br />
Pachliopta aristolochiae 36<br />
Pachliopta hector 35<br />
Papilio clytia 42<br />
Papilio crino 37<br />
Papilio demoleus 38<br />
Papilio helenus 39<br />
Papilio polymnestor 41<br />
Papilio polytes 40<br />
Parantica aglea 61<br />
Parthenos sylvia 79<br />
Phalanta phalantha 67<br />
Polyura athamas 83<br />
Prosotas dubiosa 109<br />
Prosotas nora 108<br />
Rapala varuna 104<br />
Rathinda amor 98<br />
Rohana parisatis 82<br />
Spalgis epeus 95<br />
Spindasis ictis 100<br />
Spindasis vulcanus 99<br />
Suastus gremius 129<br />
Symphaedra nais 80<br />
Tagiades litigiosa 127<br />
Tajuria cippus 101<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Names<br />
Admiral<br />
Blue 70<br />
Albatross<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Lesser 50<br />
Apefly 95<br />
Awl<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Banded 126<br />
Birdwing<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n 34<br />
Banded Peacock 37<br />
Baron 81<br />
Baronet 80<br />
Black Prince 82<br />
Blue Bottle 43<br />
Bush Brown<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 91<br />
Gladeye 92<br />
Tamil 90<br />
Cerulean<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 111<br />
Dark 110<br />
Chestnut bob 130<br />
Chocolate Soldier 74<br />
Ciliated Blue<br />
Pointed 106<br />
Clipper 79<br />
Commander 78<br />
Cornelian 105<br />
Crow<br />
Brown King 65<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 64<br />
Talicada nyseus 119<br />
Taractrocera maevius 132<br />
Telicota bambusae 133<br />
Tirumala limniace 60<br />
Troides darsius 34<br />
Udaspes folus 131<br />
Virachola perse 103<br />
Ypthima ceylonica 93<br />
Zesius chrysomallus 96<br />
Zizina otis 118<br />
Cupid<br />
Indian 120<br />
Plains 123<br />
Eggfly<br />
Great 75<br />
Emigrant<br />
Lemon 52<br />
Evening Brown<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 86<br />
Flash<br />
Indigo 104<br />
Forget-me-not 112<br />
Four Ring<br />
White 93<br />
Fritillary<br />
Indian 69<br />
Grass Blue<br />
Lesser 118<br />
Grass Dart<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 132<br />
Grass Demon 131<br />
Grass Jewel 117<br />
Grass Yellow<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 56<br />
Small 55<br />
Three Spot 57<br />
Guava Blue<br />
Large 103<br />
Gull<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 49<br />
174 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 175
Hedge Blue<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 121<br />
Hedge Hopper<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n 128<br />
Jay<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 44<br />
Tailed 45<br />
Jezebel 47<br />
Leopard 67<br />
Lime Blue 124<br />
Lime Butterfly 38<br />
Line Blue<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 108<br />
Pale Four 107<br />
Tailless 109<br />
Malayan 122<br />
Medus Brown 89<br />
Mime 42<br />
Monkey Puzzle 98<br />
Mormon<br />
Blue 41<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 40<br />
Nawab 83<br />
Nilgiri Tit 102<br />
Oak Leaf<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n Blue 76<br />
Orange Tip<br />
Little 54<br />
White 51<br />
Palmbob<br />
Indian 129<br />
Palm Dart<br />
Dark 133<br />
Palmfly<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 94<br />
Pansy<br />
Blue 72<br />
Grey 73<br />
Lemon 71<br />
Pea Blue 113<br />
Pierrot<br />
Angled 116<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 115<br />
Red 119<br />
Pioneer 48<br />
Plum Judy 125<br />
Psyche 46<br />
Rajah<br />
Tawny 84<br />
Red Helen 39<br />
Red Spot 96<br />
Rose<br />
Crimson 35<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 36<br />
Royal<br />
Peacock 101<br />
Rustic 66<br />
Sailor<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 77<br />
Salmon Arab<br />
Small 53<br />
Silverline<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 99<br />
<strong>Common</strong> Shot 100<br />
Snow Flat<br />
Water 127<br />
Tiger<br />
Blue 60<br />
Blue Glassy 59<br />
<strong>Common</strong> 63<br />
Glassy 61<br />
Plain 62<br />
Tree Brown<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n 88<br />
Tamil 87<br />
Tree Nymph<br />
<strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong>n 58<br />
Tawny coster 85<br />
Yamfly 97<br />
Yeoman<br />
Tamil 68<br />
Zebra Blue 114<br />
176 <strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong><br />
<strong>Common</strong> <strong>Butterflies</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Sri</strong> <strong>Lanka</strong> 177