This is supposedly going to be a weekly update of species seen on the Island. The first 3 days of the year were very wet and windy, so ~I did not go out. However, since then the sun has shown herself, and I was hopeful that some interesting species may now be appearing as we are approaching the best time of the year for butts. Sadly, I have been disappointed. Very little flying at the moment.
1&2) Famagana alsulus. This species is not supposed to be here, being found generally from the Philippines to Australia. However, it has been found at Nakhon Sri Thammarat (once), a single coconut plantation here on Samui, and very recently on Koh Phangan. I have now managed to find a second colony on Samui, so I am a bit happier about its future as a viable local species. The upperside (male) is the first time I managed this, it is just a shame that it is marred by a shadow from a grass stalk. The problem with this species is that it always flies low to the ground and rarely perches. Even when it does so, it is always in grass thickets where it is difficult to get clear shots.
3&4) Ampittia dioscorides camertes. At the same location as the new Famagana colony, I saw several specimens. This is not common here.
5) Rapala iarbus. This has become quite common recently, but only shows itself in the afternoon. I have been trying to get an upperside for a long time, but they seem to rest just too high up to get a good photo.
6) Danaus affinis. This mangrove specialist is under threat owing to the loss of its habitat. I have only ever found two colonies, one on the west of the Island, now being developed as a resort, and the other on the East, next to the airport which is being enlarged. I had not seen this species last year so was worried about its continued existance. Fortunately, I saw a couple last week, including an ovipositing female.
Samui 2012
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