Scarlet Tip
Common NameScarlet Tip
Scientific NameColotis danae
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorswhite, scarlet, black
HabitatOpen dry areas, scrubland, savannas, semi-desert regions, gardens
Geographic RangeAfrica, Arabian Peninsula, Middle East, South Asia
Host PlantsCadaba fruticosa, Maerua oblongifolia, Capparis decidua
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical areas; during and after monsoon seasons in drier regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a yellow lateral stripe and feed on the host plant. Pupation occurs as a chrysalis attached to a stem or leaf.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive bright scarlet-red tips on the white forewings, which are unique among similar species in its range. The underside of the hindwing is usually plain white or pale yellow.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with predominantly white wings, featuring striking scarlet-red tips on the forewings, often bordered by a thin black line. The underside is typically paler.
