Paper kite butterfly

Family: Nymphs (Nymphalidae)

Wingspan: 9.5-11.5 cm

Host plant: Plants of the Apocynaceae family, especially Parsonsia and Marsdenia

‍

Idea leuconoe, also known as the paper kite butterfly, is a large and elegant butterfly native to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand. The caterpillars feed on plants that contain toxic substances. These substances make both caterpillar and adult butterfly unappetizing to predators. The butterfly has white wings with black ribs and dots, giving it a 'papery' appearance. It flies slowly and hovering, often close to plants or flowers, enhancing its fragile and graceful appearance.

‍