Seasonal Leafwing
Common NameSeasonal Leafwing
Scientific NameDoleschallia bisaltide
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands
Host PlantsPseuderanthemum, Graptophyllum, Ficus, Artocarpus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny, often dark with yellow or orange markings. The chrysalis is typically green or brown, resembling a leaf or twig.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the perfect dead-leaf mimicry of the closed wings, including a pointed apex and a tail-like projection on the hindwing, making it almost indistinguishable from a dry leaf.
Description
This butterfly displays remarkable dead-leaf mimicry on the underside of its wings, featuring mottled browns, tans, and yellows with prominent vein-like patterns. The upperside, not visible in this image, is typically bright orange with black markings.
