Indian Sunbeam
Common NameIndian Sunbeam
Scientific NameHeliophorus indicus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, black, grey
HabitatHilly regions, forest clearings, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeHimalayan region of India, Nepal, Bhutan, parts of Southeast Asia
Host PlantsPolygonum, Rumex
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, slug-shaped larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae are known to feed on Polygonum and Rumex species.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange upperwings with distinct black forewing margins. The underside, not visible in this image, often displays metallic spots characteristic of the genus.
Description
A small, vibrant butterfly with bright orange upperwings, featuring prominent black borders on the forewings and a thin dark margin on the hindwings. Its body is greyish-brown.
