Belonging to the family Papilionidae, the Common Mormon Butterfly is widely distributed across numerous South and Southeast Asian countries. These stunning butterflies often make their presence known in meadows, gardens, woodlands, and forest trails.
Habitat of The Common Mormon
Preferring warm and subtropical conditions, the Common Mormon Butterfly can be found at varying altitudes, from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
Flight Behaviour and Pattern of The Common Mormon
Their flight pattern is characterized by fast and agile movements, allowing them to efficiently navigate their environment and evade potential predators.
Life Cycle of the Common Mormon
The life cycle of these captivating creatures begins when the female deposits her eggs on various host plants. After approximately four days, the eggs hatch into caterpillars that voraciously consume leaves for nourishment. As they shed their skin multiple times to accommodate their growing bodies, these caterpillars eventually transform into pupae. Within a couple of weeks, the adult butterflies emerge from this pupal stage and take to the skies.
Features and Behaviours: Male and Female Common Mormons
Male Common Mormons sport striking black wings with a blue or green sheen, accented by red crescent markings at their bottom edges. These strong flyers are territorial creatures often seen guarding their chosen areas against rival males.
Female Common Mormons exhibit an interesting element of mimicry: some appear similar to males in coloration, while others adopt patterns reminiscent of unpalatable swallowtail species. Females tend to fly lower to the ground while seeking suitable host plants for egg-laying.
Availability and Spotting of Common Mormons in Nepal
Nepal, with its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, is home to many butterfly species, including the enchanting Common Mormon. The best places to spot these delightful creatures are within Chitwan National Park and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, where their preferred host plants are readily available.
In conclusion, the captivating Common Mormon Butterfly is a wonder to behold and offers a glimpse into the intricate lives of these fascinating insects. If you ever find yourself in Nepal, keep an eye out for these extraordinary butterflies gracing the land with their presence.