Garden Commodore
Common NameGarden Commodore
Scientific NameVanessa kershawi
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black, white
HabitatOpen areas, grasslands, gardens, disturbed areas, coastal dunes
Geographic RangeAustralia, New Zealand, Norfolk Island, Lord Howe Island
Host PlantsMalva, Arctium, Cirsium, Urtica
Flight PeriodAll year in warmer regions, seasonal in cooler areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny, often dark with yellow markings. Pupae are suspended head-down and are typically camouflaged. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the broad orange band on both forewings and hindwings, and white spots on the forewing apex. The cryptic mottled brown underside helps differentiate it from similar species like the Painted Lady.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown to black wings, characterized by a broad orange band across the hindwing and lower forewing, and white spots near the forewing apex. The underside is mottled brown, providing excellent camouflage.
