Southern Birdwing: India’s second largest butterfly species

SOUTHERN BIRDWING

Source: HINDU

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Context

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

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 Status: Least Concern.
Initially, it was considered a subspecies of the Common Birdwingbut is now recognized as a distinct species.

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.

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

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

Aspect	Southern Birdwing	Golden Birdwing
*India Specific*	The species with a wingspan of 190mm, is India’s 2^nd 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).