This butterfly belongs to the 'Swallowtail' genus and is endemic to India especially the Western Ghats.
Scientifically called "Atrophaneura hector"; the red colour of its wings is a warning to its predators about its toxicity. The butterfly acquires these poisons when it feeds on Aristolochia plants, chiefly aristolochic acid during its larval stage. This butterfly is also found in large numbers in gardens which have Lantana Plants.
One can judge the age of butterfly by the wearing of its wings. Like the one in the above photograph is in its middle ages. The second photograph shows the butterfly in its typical basking position.
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Wow, what a beautiful specimen. I love it's coloration.
ReplyDeleteYou have a really great blog. Excellent pictures and informative too. I didn't know that about the wearing of the wings.