Leopard (Phalanta phalantha phalantha)

Family : Nymphalidae

Genus : Phalanta

Species : P. phalantha

Wingspan : 50-55mm

Local host plants : Uguressa [S] (Flacourtia indica), (Flacourtia jangomas), (Flacourtia inermis)

Location : Divulapitiya, Sri Lanka

Camera : Nikon D3100, 18-55mm

Leopard butterfly; new born

Leopard butterfly is a member of family Nymphalidae with very colorful wing pattern. It is a common butterfly which can be seen throughout the year. Leopard butterfly can be commonly found visiting the nectar plants. It is seen with several butterflies of same species wandering around larval food plant. Leopard butterfly is having a fast flight and gets easily alerted. 

Open wing: Leopard butterfly

Leopard is a sun-loving butterfly which can be often seen basking on leafs or perches. It is usually with fully opened wings when resting and basking.

Leopard on its host plant; flacourtia inermis

It is a common to see Leopard butterflies flying around their host plants and nectar plants nearby. Similar to many other butterfly species, Leopard is fond of Lantana, ata pethiya and blue snakeweed flowers. 

Leopard butterfly basking in sunlight