Circe
Common NameCirce
Scientific NameHestina assimilis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsblack, white, blue, orange, brown
HabitatForests, forest edges, often near streams or damp areas for puddling
Geographic RangeEast Asia (China, Korea, Japan, parts of Southeast Asia)
Host PlantsCeltis spp. (hackberry trees)
Flight PeriodApril to October (varies by region)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on hackberry (Celtis) leaves, pupating into a chrysalis before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the unique combination of black forewings with white and blue stripes, and the large, contrasting reddish-orange hindwing patch with a scalloped margin of white spots. Often observed puddling on damp ground.
Description
A striking butterfly with black forewings featuring prominent white and blue stripes, and hindwings characterized by a large reddish-orange to brown patch with a border of white spots.
