Indian Nawab
Common NameIndian Nawab
Scientific NamePolyura agrarius
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, pale blue, black, reddish-brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouth and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, southern China)
Host PlantsAlbizia, Acacia, Grewia, Caesalpinia
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year, peaking during warmer months
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green with horned heads for camouflage, and pupae are often green and suspended by a cremaster.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pale greenish-blue central band on the underside of the hindwing, bordered by dark lines, and the prominent, pointed tails on the hindwings.
Description
A medium to large butterfly with a striking underside featuring a broad pale greenish-blue band across the hindwing and part of the forewing, bordered by black and reddish-brown lines, on a tawny-brown background.
