Leopard Lacewing
Common NameLeopard Lacewing
Scientific NameCethosia cyane
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyHeliconiinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsAdenia, Passiflora
Flight PeriodYear-round (multiple broods in tropical climates)
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are spiny, often black with yellow or red markings, feeding on passionflower vines. Pupae are typically ornate and metallic.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bright orange upperwings with prominent black spots and a black marginal band containing white spots. The intricate red, black, and white pattern on the underside is also a key identifier.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with vibrant orange upperwings heavily marked with black spots and stripes, especially along the margins. The underside displays an intricate pattern of red, black, and white.
