Butterflies...of Kerala 1

The Crimson Rose (Pachliopta hector)

A large swallowtail butterfly belonging to the subgenus Pachliopta (Roses) of the Red-bodied Swallowtails (genus Atrophaneura)

It is found in India and Sri Lanka and possibly the coast of western Myanmar.

In India, it is found in the Western Ghats, southern India (Kerala), eastern India (West Bengal and Orissa) and the Andaman Islands. Generally common and not known to be threatened. It is common all along the Western Ghats up to Maharashtra but rare in Gujarat. Protected by law in India.

This butterfly is at home both in jungle and in open country. During the dry season, it will be found up to 8000 feet (2400 m) in South India, but it is found all the year round at lower elevations.

A very striking looking tailed butterfly with prominent white bands on its forewings. The Crimson Rose is very fond of flowers especially Lantana. Nectar appears to be essential for the butterfly and a higher nectar intake is thought to increase egg production.

Close to the ground, the flight of the Crimson Rose is slow and fluttering but steady. At greater heights, it flies faster and stronger. It basks with its wings spread flat, sometimes in small congregations at heights of 10 to 15 metres up in the trees.

The butterfly often roosts for the night in large companies on the twigs and branches of trees and shrubs. When resting the butterfly draws its forewings halfway between the hind wings. The butterfly sleeps on slanting outstretched branches or twigs of trees or bushes.

The most striking aspect of the butterflies behaviour is its strong migratory tendencies. During the peak of its season, several thousands of Crimson Roses can be found congregating and then they begin migrating to other areas.