Cape York aeroplane
Common NameCape York aeroplane
Scientific NamePantoporia consimilis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)48
Primary Colorsblack, blue, white
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCape York Peninsula (Australia), New Guinea, Indonesia
Host PlantsAcacia
Flight PeriodYear-round (more common in wet season)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on host plants, pupate into a chrysalis, and emerge as adult butterflies.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad pale blue/white band on a black background and its characteristic gliding 'aeroplane' flight. The specific pattern of white spots on the forewing apex is also a key feature.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with deep black wings adorned with a prominent, broad, pale blue to white band running across both forewings and hindwings, complemented by several distinct pale spots near the forewing apex.
