Subtropical Lady
Common NameSubtropical Lady
Scientific NameVanessa indica
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)57.5
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown, white, blue
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, gardens, parks, mountainous areas
Geographic RangeAsia (Indian subcontinent, East Asia, Southeast Asia), Canary Islands, Madeira
Host PlantsUrtica thunbergiana, Girardinia diversifolia, Boehmeria
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in warmer regions, spring to autumn in temperate zones
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are spiny, typically dark with yellow markings, and feed on nettles. Pupae are chrysalides, often brown or green, hanging head-down.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive orange and black forewing pattern with white apical spots, combined with the row of blue-centered eyespots on the hindwings, which are visible when the wings are open.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking pattern of orange and black on the forewings, featuring white spots near the apex, and a row of prominent blue-centered black eyespots on the brown hindwings.
