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Project Noah Nature School
Danaus chrysippus orientis
The African Monarch or the Plain Tiger is considered a medium sized butterfly with a wingspan of 7–8 centimetres (2.8–3.1 in).
High altitude mixed woodland (prim. Acasia bushes) and grassland. This was found on a flowering bush next to a gravel road. Place for the spotting: Mlawula Nature Reserve, Swaziland.
Place for the spotting: Mlawula Nature Reserve, Swaziland. Despite the external similarity, the Common Tiger is not closely related to this species. The Plain Tiger is protected from attacks due to the unpalatable alkaloids ingested during the larval stages. The butterfly therefore flies slowly and leisurely, generally close to the ground and in a straight line. This gives a would-be predator ample time to recognise and avoid attacking it. Inexperienced predators will try attacking it, but will learn soon enough to avoid this butterfly as the alkaloids in its body cause vomiting.
Tusen tack Lasse! That comment made my day! You know, comments like that just makes me want to continue to find, photograph and learn more about what I see. It is really motivating. And to see the world of nature through other ppls eyes&lenses is nothing but fantastic! I look forward to see more spottings from Finland, and I wish you a great weekend.
Tina
Hi Tiz! Your picture of butterflies are awesome! Is a pleasure to see them.
ViSarancha and Adarsha, thank you for your words. And yes Adarsha, I am quite amazed about the many species that India and the Southern part of Africa share. I am sure we will find more species that we have in common in the future.
@Sckel Ants are more of a challenge, they can bite :) And they are so extremely fascinating in everything they do!
I really wanted an overdose of butterflies. I just have had overdose of ants. I guess I do not like them anymore.
the yellow is this one: http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/304..., Common Dotted Border
I almost got a butterfly overdose this weekend in Swaziland :D
Spotted on Jul 14, 2013
Submitted on Jul 17, 2013
