SOUTHERN BIRDWING

Last Updated on 13th September, 2024
3 minutes, 7 seconds

Description

SOUTHERN BIRDWING

Source: HINDU

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

India’s second largest butterfly species has been found in Madurai district. 

Troides Minos (Southern Birdwing)

  • It belongs to the family of Swallowtail butterflies.
  • It is endemic to Southern India.
  • Wingspan is 140–190 mm, making it the second-largest butterfly in India.
  • IUCN StatusLeast Concern.
  • Initially, it was considered a subspecies of the Common Birdwingbut is now recognized as a distinct species.

Distribution

  • It is primarily found in the Western Ghats and in some parts of the Eastern Ghats.
  • Common in Karnataka(state butterfly), Kerala, and southern Maharashtra; less common in Goa.

Habitat

  • Found in diverse habitats ranging from low-land evergreen forestsmixed deciduous forestsdry scrublands, and even agricultural fields.
  • Recorded at altitudes up to 910 metersin the Western Ghats.

Behavior

  • Most active during early morningand late evening.
  • Feeds on nectar from LantanaMussaendaIxora, and other domestic plants.
  • strong and determined flier, can cover large distances.

Southern Birdwing vs Golden Birdwing

Aspect

Southern Birdwing

Golden Birdwing

India Specific

The species with a wingspan of 190mm, is India’s 2nd largest butterfly.

The Himalayan butterfly named Golden Birdwing (Troides Aeacus) with 190-194 mm wingspan is India's largest butterfly.

Distribution

South India, parts of Sri Lanka

India, Southeast Asia, parts of Malaysia and Indonesia

Male Appearance

Black with yellow bands and white spots on wings

Yellow with black bands and a prominent golden hue

Female Appearance

Larger than males, yellow with black borders

Yellow with black and golden markings, more vivid coloration

Flight Pattern

Fast and erratic

Slow and gliding

Habitat

Forests, open woodlands, and gardens

Rainforests and tropical forests

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Least Concern

Distinctive Features

Males have a prominent yellow band on forewings

Males have a striking golden sheen on wings

Sources:

HINDU 

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q:Recently, for the first time in our country, which of the following States has declared a particular butterfly as State Butterfly? (2016)

a) Arunachal Pradesh

b) Himachal Pradesh

c) Karnataka

d) Maharashtra

Answer: d

Explanation:

Maharashtra became the first state in India to declare a state butterfly, choosing the Blue Mormon (Papilio polymnestor).

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