Clipper Butterfly
Common NameClipper Butterfly
Scientific NameParthenos sylvia
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyBiblidinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsblack, white, cream
HabitatTropical rainforests, open woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsAdenia species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar) feeding on host plants, pupa (chrysalis), and adult butterfly. Larvae are typically spiny.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique black and white/cream pattern of large, irregular patches. Its graceful, gliding flight is also characteristic, often seen in the understory of tropical forests.
Description
A medium-to-large butterfly with striking black wings adorned with large, irregular white or cream-colored patches and spots, creating a distinctive high-contrast pattern.
