Typical Sergeant

Description:

Nymphalidae; Nymphalinae; Limenitidini; Athyma kasa kasa Moore 1858. Philippine Lepidoptera has this to say about the Tribe Limenitidini: "Formerly the Nymphalidae subfamily Limenitidinae, which includes the admirals and relatives. The common names of many species and genera reference military ranks or titles of nobility (namely those from former tribe Adoliadini, e.g., count, duke, earl, and marquis), in reference to these butterflies' large size, bold patterns, and dashing flight. In particular, the light stripe running lengthwise across the wings of many Limenitidini has reminded earlier authors of officers' (e.g. admiral, commander, commodore) shoulder marks and epaulets."

Habitat:

This Typical Sergeant was spotted in roadside foliage in a sparsely populated area. The road, at this point was about 50 ft. above sea level and rises steeply, eventually reaching an elevation of around 200 ft. The number and variety of butterflies which can be seen in this area increases dramatically as higher elevations are reached, especially early in the morning. This A. k. kasa was seen at around 11:40 a.m. on the way home at the end of a butterfly hunt.