Great Eggfly
Image: Μαυλάνα (CC BY 4.0)
Common NameGreat Eggfly
Scientific NameHypolimnas bolina
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, gardens, parks, disturbed areas, coastal areas
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands, parts of Africa
Host PlantsPipturus, Fleurya, Asystasia, Ruellia, Portulaca, Sida
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are spiny and dark-colored, feeding on various plants. Pupae are typically green or brown and suspended head-down.
Identification TipsLook for the dark wings with distinct white patches, especially on the forewings. Females often mimic *Euploea* species, while males may exhibit a blue sheen on the white patches. The scalloped wing margins with small white spots on the underside are also characteristic.
Description
A medium to large butterfly, typically dark brown to black with prominent white markings on both forewings and hindwings. The underside, as seen in the image, is a duller brown with similar white patches and a scalloped margin.
