Marian VolkwynThe world is full of beautiful and fascinating butterflies. Thus, spending some time in nature to spot them can be a fulfilling and refreshing experience.
As you travel and explore, you can spot different butterflies, admire their beauty and learn more about them.
Here are some of the world’s most beautiful butterflies and where you can spot them:
Peacock Pansy
Found in Cambodia and South Asia, the peacock pansy exists in two distinct adult forms. These differ mainly in the patterns on the underside of the wings. The dry-season form boasts an underside which is a rich orange-yellow colour with only a few markings, while the wet-season form has a slightly similar appearance with black markings that are heavier and deeper in colour.
Image credit: Pexels
Dead Leaf Butterfly
The dead leaf butterfly is one of the world’s most interesting species. It thrives in Asia’s tropical climate and looks like a dry leaf when its wings are closed. The leaf-like appearance is what it uses as a camouflage. Countries such as Nepal, India, Thailand, Taiwan, China and Vietnam are excellent places to spot these butterflies.
Image credit: Pexels
Zebra Longwing Butterfly
The zebra longwing butterfly is adorned with a black colour and has pale yellow zebra-like stripes. The species has a reputation for being very intelligent. It flies slowly and gracefully, and is also not easily startled.
Zebra longwing butterflies are common in Mexico, as well as South and Central America. You are also very likely to spot them in Southern Texas and Florida.
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Monarch butterfly
Recognised by its orange colour with black veins and white spots, the monarch butterfly is nothing short of mesmerising. The species of butterflies is known to lay eggs only on the milkweed plant. Additionally, the plant is the only source of food for baby caterpillars. Monarch butterflies can be found in different parts of the world, including the United States, Hawaii, Cuba and North Africa.
Image credit: Pexels
Sandmen butterflies
The Sandmen is a widespread genus of tiny butterflies. Some species can be found in almost every corner of South Africa, while others have very specific habitat requirements. They often settle on rocks, dung, flowers and leaves. They are not hard to spot, and exploring South Africa in Spring and Summer will result in you seeing them in their numbers.
Image credit: Pexels
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Feature image: Pexels
Originally published in Getaway Magazine
