Phalanta phalantha phalantha
Leopard
Family: | Nymphalidae |
Subfamily: | Heliconiinae |
Genus | Phalanta |
Species: | phalantha |
Subspecies: | phalantha |
Common Name: | Leopard |
Life History: | complete |
Extant in countries: | •Singapore |
Hostplants: |
Description
The butterfly is a rich orange brown above and ornamented with black spots and streaks, reminescent of the Fritillary butterflies of the west - to which the Leopard is probably distantly related. The underside is a lighter orange with a purplish sheen in side light. The Leopard is found in secondary growth and is fond of Lantana blossoms, on which is shown feeding here
Habitat & Habits
The Leopard is usually encountered in urban areas, parks and gardens in Singapore. This is most likely due to the fact that the caterpillar of this butterfly feeds on the Weeping Willow tree (Salix species), which is an ornamental tree found in many gardens and urban areas. Occasionally, several individuals are encountered flying around a Weeping Willow tree.
Other Observations
To be detailed.
Early Stages
To be detailed.
Further Reading
To be detailed.