Color Sergeant  (Nymphalidae Nymphalinae Athyma nefte - Cramer 1780)

Found a sole catepillar on Glochidion eriocarparum (Hairy-Fruited Abacus Plant).   This caterpillars was  resting on the  top side of a leaf.  The nearly mature catepillar was found at Tai Tam Reservoir, Hong Kong on March 1, 2003.  This species is fairly widespread and can be found thoughout the warmer months.  The butterfly is quite difficult to get close to.


about 2.8 cm / 1.1 inches long


A mature larva in an agressive position of alarm.
Looks like it should be in the ocean!


The pupa, about 2.1 cm / 0.8 inch long.
There  are shiny bronze patches on both dorsal and ventral sides.
(March 8, 2003)


The butterfly in one of its rest positions.
It will also rest with wings folded up together;
in that position, the sun shining through the wing tips is quite a  bright orange.
Eclosure was on March 31, 2003.


The adult male  butterfly, top and underside.
Wingspan is about 4.4 cm / 1.7 inches.
The female is larger and similar in pattrn except that the white banding is orange.
 

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kilroy
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This page last updated 15-Apr-2003.