Plain Tiger
Common NamePlain Tiger
Scientific NameDanaus chrysippus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatOpen country, grasslands, scrubland, gardens, agricultural areas, forest edges
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia (Middle East, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia), Australia
Host PlantsCalotropis gigantea, Asclepias curassavica, Cynanchum, Stapelia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are strikingly striped with black, white, and yellow bands, featuring fleshy filaments. Pupae are typically green with metallic golden spots.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent black veins on orange wings and the specific pattern of white spots on the black wing margins. Often confused with the African Monarch, but distinguished by the less extensive black on the forewing apex and the distinct marginal spots.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with bright orange-brown wings, prominent black veins, and black margins adorned with a series of distinct white spots. The underside is similar but often paler.
