Variegated Princess
Common NameVariegated Princess
Scientific NameCharaxes varanes
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyCharaxinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, blue
HabitatForests, woodlands, savannas
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsAllophylus, Deinbollia
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, peaks vary by rainfall
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically green with a distinctive head capsule, feeding on host plants before pupating into a chrysalis.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking dark brown and white pattern on the ventral side, the two prominent tails on the hindwings, and the iridescent blue marginal markings.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with dark brown wings featuring prominent white bands and spots, and distinctive blue scaling and two tails on the hindwings.
