yellow-eyed plane
Common Nameyellow-eyed plane
Scientific NameCynitia iapis
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyLimenitidinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host PlantsSmilax
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis from egg to larva (caterpillar) feeding on Smilax plants, then pupates into a chrysalis before emerging as an adult butterfly.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent black and white wing pattern, especially the broad white band on the hindwing, and the distinctive bright yellow eyes which give it its common name.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with striking black wings featuring a broad white band across the hindwing and a series of white spots on the forewing, distinguished by its bright yellow eyes.
