COMMON MORMON

Scientific name: Papilio polytes Linnaeus

Local Name: Bahurupi

Field Characteristics:

Wing Span: 90 to 100 mm

  The male of this species is jet black with a row of white spots along the central region of the hind wing. The edge of the forewing also has a series of smaller white spots. Females have three forms. The bodies of the females are black. The wings are black with red and white spots on hind wing. The form romulus mimics Crimson Rose, the form stichius mimics Common Rose. The form cyrus resembles the male in coloration with along with some red dots on hind wing. The males are smaller in size. Caterpillars resemble bird droppings in the initial stages.

Distribution and Habitat:

This is a common butterfly seen in forests as well as urban areas. Commonly seen in city gardens attracted by its cultivated host plants.

  Activity: It is most common in monsoons and immediate post monsoons.

  Habits:

The females mimic the rose butterflies and they also copy their slow fluttering flight. The flight becomes fast and erratic when disturbed. The males fly zigzag at moderate speed.

  Both sexes bask in the sun with wings spread flat.

  Food:

This butterfly feeds on nectar and also visits wet patches of soil. Garden flowers such as lantana, ixora, mussenda , jatropha , etc. are favored by this species. This butterfly uses lemon, orange and curry leaf trees as food plants.