30 Butterfly Species on Fiji Island

Welcome! You’re about to embark on a virtual journey to explore the incredible world of butterflies on Fiji Island.

This beautiful island boasts a rich biodiversity, including no less than 30 unique butterfly species.

Let’s dive in together and flutter from one vibrant species to the next.

Blue Moon Butterfly (Hypolimnas bolina)

The Blue Moon Butterfly is one of the most stunning species populating Fiji Island. It’s also known as the “Great Eggfly” or “Common Eggfly”.

You’ll marvel at its gorgeous black and white spotted wings the moment you spot one.

Let’s dive into more about this beautiful creature:

• Habitat: Naturally, the Blue Moon Butterfly prefers subtropical forests, grasslands, and human gardens.
• Appearance: They are well-known for their black wings with striking white or blue spots.
• Size: On average, their wingspan ranges from 65-95 mm.
• Diet: Caterpillars feed on leaves while adults enjoy nectar from flowers.
• Reproduction: Females glue their eggs one by one on the host plants.
• Lifespan: Typical lifespan is about two months, but it varies depending on the climate and environment.
• Host Plants: They love Urena lobata and Sida rhombifolia, among other plants.

This butterfly’s beauty truly lives up to its poetic name. The Blue Moon Butterfly is a gem on the Fiji Island that never fails to enchant its viewers.

Meadow Argus (Junonia villida)

Step into the world of the Meadow Argus, a species that stands out on the Island of Fiji.

• Habitat: Typically found in open spaces like grasslands and gardens. They love sunshine and warm climates.
• Appearance: They sport brown wings adorned with intricate patterns of shades of white and orange.
• Size: Adult Meadow Argus reaches a wingspan of about 45-55mm.
• Diet: Adults prefer nectar from flowers. However, caterpillars feed solely on plants.
• Reproduction: They lay single eggs on host plants. The caterpillar that emerges is dull-colored, blending in to stay safe from predators.
• Lifespan: Meadow Argus butterflies have a lifespan of about four weeks in their adult stage.
• Host Plants: Often choose plants from the Asteraceae family, where they lay eggs. These plants provide sustenance for the ensuing caterpillar stage.

Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or just someone who enjoys beautiful things, the Meadow Argus butterfly is sure to intrigue you!

Large Grass Yellow (Eurema hecabe)

This vibrant butterfly species, the Large Grass Yellow, revels in the Fijian environment.

You should know a few details about this little beauty.

• Habitat: You’ll often spot these fluttery characters in open grassy areas, as they aren’t too fond of dense forests.
• Appearance: They exhibit a striking yellow with brown edges on their upper wings, immediately catching the eye.
• Size: With a wingspan that ranges between 32-45mm, they’re not the largest but indeed capture one’s attention.
• Diet: Adults feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. Caterpillars, on the other hand, feast on the leaves of host plants.
• Reproduction: The female lays her eggs on the leaf buds of the host plants.
• Lifespan: These live for around nine months, providing a splash of color in any season.
• Host Plants: Look for Cassia species or the Senna obtusifolia plant, where you’re likely to find them living and nibbling.

Small Grass Yellow (Eurema brigitta)

The Small Grass Yellow, or Eurema brigitta, is an incredible species of butterfly that you will find dotting the Fiji landscape.

• Habitat: These creatures inhabit almost every corner of the Fiji islands. They generally prefer open, sunny locations with plenty of grass.
• Appearance: They boast a bright yellow color with black edges on their wings, a sight to behold in Fiji’s rich biodiversity.
• Size: They are small, as the name suggests, with a wingspan of about 35 to 40mm.
• Diet: As a larva, the butterfly primarily feeds on Cassia species, but as an adult, its diet mainly consists of nectar from flowers.
• Reproduction: The female Small Grass Yellow lays a single egg on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: These butterflies usually live for around a month, a period filled with fluttering and feeding.
• Host Plants: The Cassia species of plants are the main hosts where Small Grass Yellow butterflies lay their eggs. These plants are plentiful in Fiji, making the islands a prime habitat for this species.

Orange Albatross (Appias nero)

Imagine yourself gazing at the Orange Albatross, another gem in Fiji’s butterfly display.

Don’t be fooled by the name. It’s not an oversized bird, but an interesting butterfly species.

The following facts should give you a rudimentary understanding of this fascinating insect:

• Habitat: Prefers open spaces; thrives in sunny areas where its host plants can be found.
• Appearance: Showcases a distinctive orange color; wings shimmer in the sun.
• Size: Not too small or too large–just enough to notice its presence.
• Diet: It feeds almost entirely on nectar from various flowers.
• Reproduction: Like most butterflies, these breed in the warmer month producing several broods in a year.
• Lifespan: Lifespan is short, normally ranging from a week to a month.
• Host Plants: Is very particular about its host plants; cucumber plant seems to be a favourite.

Remember, appreciation lies in understanding. So, get more acquainted with these beauties on your next tour of Fiji.

Jezebel Nymph (Mynes geoffroyi)

The Jezebel Nymph (Mynes geoffroyi) in Fiji is one sight you wouldn’t want to miss.

Let’s delve into some significant attributes of this captivating butterfly:

• Habitat: Frequents open forests and gardens.
• Appearance: Striking bright colors—versatile white, yellow, and red wings underscored by black patches. Quite a spectacle!
• Size: A medium-sized beauty, typically averaging at about 7 centimeters across.
• Diet: Big on nectar—from native flowers and plants. Sometimes, they also savor aphid honeydew.
• Reproduction: Unique mating dance—mails attract females with an intricate aerial display.
• Lifespan: Outlives its peers by reaching up to 15 weeks, depending on environmental conditions.
• Host Plants: Known to prefer mistletoes—Jezebel lays eggs exclusively on these plants as its caterpillars feed on them exclusively.

Remember, while there are countless fascinating insect species on Fiji Island, try not to fawn too heavily over the beautiful Jezebel Nymph.

There are plenty more butterflies to encounter!

Fiji Swift (Papilio anactus)

Let’s talk about the Fiji Swift.

Also known as the Dainty Swallowtail, this butterfly is remarkable and has some fascinating characteristics:

• Habitat: You’ll typically find it in urban areas, forests, and woodland margins in Fiji.
• Appearance: It has an elegant black body with distinct white patterns on the wings. The abdomen has orange-red spots.
• Size: The Fiji Swift isn’t small! It measures up to 7 centimeters in wingspan.
• Diet: This species enjoy the nectar from various flowers. Caterpillars feast on citrus trees.
• Reproduction: Females lay spherical eggs on the lower part of leaves.
• Lifespan: Don’t get attached, as their lifespan is about six weeks in butterfly form.
• Host Plants: Citrus plants like oranges, lemons, and mandarins are essential for the survival of their larvae.

A fascinating species, right? Keep reading to discover more amazing butterfly species residing on Fiji Island.

Common Crow (Euploea core)

The Common Crow is fascinating. The habitat for this butterfly species primarily includes tropical rainforests. Contrastingly, you might also see them enjoying an open woodland.

Let’s learn more about them:

• Habitat: They reside in forests, woodland and suburban areas.
• Appearance: They have dark brown wings with dull white spots.
• Size: An adult Common Crow usually measures about 7 cm (2.7 in) in wingspan.
• Diet: They feed on the nectar of various flowering plants.
• Reproduction: They deposit their eggs on the leaves of their host plants.
• Lifespan: An average lifespan is approximately 11 months.
• Host Plants: They use plants from the Apocynaceae family as their hosts.

These fascinating butterflies exhibit an adaptation called ‘warning coloration’ to alert potential predators of their unpalatable taste.

Don’t be surprised if you see them flaunting their slow and relaxed flight!

Lesser Wanderer (Danaus petilia)

The Lesser Wanderer is an integral part of Fiji’s opulent butterfly kingdom.

It showcases remarkable resilience and environmental adaptability.

• Habitat: Open, sunny spaces, like gardens or pastures, are their favorite.
• Appearance: They possess pronounced warm yellowish-orange patterns on a black ground color, with white spots spraying the body’s edges.
• Size: Adult Lesser Wanderers can reach a wingspan from 6 to 8 cm.
• Diet: Nectar acts as the chief food source, particularly from milkweed family plants.
• Reproduction: Copulation takes place following a unique courtship dance. Then, female butterflies lay eggs under milkweed leaves.
• Lifespan: On average, they have a 2-6 week lifespan after reaching adulthood.
• Host Plants: Remember, milkweed plants? They’re not just part of their diet. Lesser Wanderer larvae typically grow on them.

Definitely, the Lesser Wanderer is a remarkable marvel of nature you don’t want to miss when wandering through Fiji.

Scarlet Jezebel (Delias argenthona)

Meet the Scarlet Jezebel, one of Fiji’s most vibrant residents. Its scientific name is Delias argenthona.

• Habitat: You’ll find this stunning butterfly residing in lush tropical and subtropical environments.
• Appearance: It boasts brilliant red and white markings on its wings, coupled with black tips, making a captivating contrast.
• Size: Expect a medium-sized creature, with a wingspan falling in the range of 7-8.5 cm.
• Diet: As adults, they dine on nectar from various flowers, while the caterpillars feed on different Acanthaceae species.
• Reproduction: The females lay their eggs on plant leaves, which are used as a first meal by the newborn larvae.
• Lifespan: A short, but striking lifetime of about a month is common.
• Host Plants: Host plants include small trees and shrubs from the Acanthaceae family, providing nourishment for eggs and larvae.

This butterfly is a remarkable inhabitant of Fiji, creating a beautiful and colourful spectacle that draws wildlife enthusiasts worldwide.

Scarlet Swallowtail (Papilio rumanzovia)

The Scarlet Swallowtail is a sight to behold, and Fiji Island offers the perfect viewing spot.

• Habitat: This vibrant species prefers forests and gardens. They are fond of warm, tropical climates making Fiji an ideal habitat.
• Appearance: They are notable for their bright red and black colors with large swallowtail wings adorned with sparkling blue streaks.
• Size: Adults have an average wingspan of about 10 cm, making them pretty big amongst their counterparts.
• Diet: The Scarlet Swallowtail caterpillar loves Citrus plants. They mainly feed on the leaves. Adult butterflies are partial to nectars from a variety of plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay tiny, spherical eggs either singly or in clusters on host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: An adult lives for about 3 to 4 weeks, with the entire life cycle lasting 2 months.
• Host Plants: Citrus plants mostly, but they also enjoy a diverse array of plants.

Isn’t it amazing how intricate these creatures are?

Orchard Swallowtail (Papilio aegeus)

You can notice the gorgeous Orchard Swallowtail frequenting the outskirts of Fiji’s dense forests and thriving in botanical sanctuaries.

• Habitat: The edges of Fiji’s lovely, dense forests and glorious, botanical gardens.
• Appearance: Distinguished for its glossy black body contrasted with large white spots, it definitely stands out.
• Size: This large wonder typically reaches a wingspan of up to 14 cm.
• Diet: Fascinatingly, the adults feed on the nectar of a range of flowering plants, while the caterpillars primarily feed on citrus plants.
• Reproduction: Curious to note, females lay single eggs on the upper side of leaves, and the colorful caterpillars are quite a sight!
• Lifespan: Their periods of success from egg, caterpillar, to adult average around 28 days.
• Host Plants: In particular, their caterpillars are typically found munching on citrus plants like lemon and orange trees.

As an enthusiast, appreciating this species in all its stages would be a treat indeed!

Blue Triangle (Graphium sarpedon)

The Blue Triangle, scientifically known as Graphium sarpedon, is a butterfly species that attracts attention with its vibrant blue markings.

• Habitat: These butterflies primarily inhabit rainforests, but can also be seen in urban gardens and forests.
• Appearance: They stand out with their predominantly green wings highlighted with blue or turquoise triangular markings.
• Size: Adult Blue Triangles usually reach a wingspan of about 70-100mm.
• Diet: Larvae feed on plant leaves, while adults enjoy flower nectar and rotting fruits.
• Reproduction: Females lay their spherical, pale greenish-blue eggs singly on host plant leaves.
• Lifespan: In their adult form, Blue Triangles typically live for around 2 to 3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Larvae use plants from the Lauraceae family, including the camphor laurel and cinnamon tree, as their host.

This butterfly species brings a splash of color to Fiji’s diverse ecosystem.

Common Eggfly (Hypolimnas bolina)

Also known as the “Great Eggfly”, the Common Eggfly is distinguished by its striking appearance.

Wondering where it gets its distinct design? We’ve got answers.

• Habitat: It prefers coastal and rainforest regions, but you can also spot it in parks and gardens.
• Appearance: This beauty dons an array of colors. Males have a black body and wings with three white spots and an electric blue outline, while females flaunt darker hues coupled with white spots and brown edges.
• Size: Typically, it measures 65 to 75mm across, making a sight to behold.
• Diet: It’s drawn to the nectar of various flowering plants, often seen fluttering around blossoms.
• Reproduction: Females mate multiple times with different males and lay eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: The Common Eggfly’s life is fleeting, lasting only 7 to 12 days.
• Host Plants: They’re particularly fond of the Parasitic Scrambling Flower which serves as their prime breeding ground.

Isn’t nature just amazing? Stay tuned for more on Fiji’s fascinating fluttering residents!

Peacock Jewel (Hypochrysops pythias)

Have you ever set your eyes on the Peacock Jewel Butterfly? Its scientific name is Hypochrysops miskini, and it’s one of the most mesmerizing species you’ll find on Fiji Island.

Let’s learn some key interesting points about this vibrant creature:

• Habitat: Predominantly found in humid forests and shrublands.
• Appearance: Characterized by its impressive blue-green iridescent wings, edged with white and black.
• Size: Generally measures in the range of 4 – 5.5 cm. Quite a spectacle!
• Diet: Adults mainly feed on nectar from a variety of flowers.
• Reproduction: Undergoes a complete metamorphosis from egg, larvae, pupa to an adult butterfly.
• Lifespan: Short but noteworthy, usually around three weeks.
• Host Plants: Prefers to lay eggs on mistletoe plants.

The Peacock Jewel is truly a delight. Its vibrant color and spectacular presence add magic to Fiji’s rich butterfly population.

Large Green-banded Blue (Danis danis)

Welcome to the vibrant world of the Large Green-banded Blue butterfly.

This exquisite species, known scientifically as Danis danis, brings about an amazing burst of color and pattern.

• Habitat: In the highlands, it finds comfort, often hovering around flowers, adding to the scenic beauty of Fiji Island.
• Appearance: It flares out its green and blue banded wings elegantly and entices onlookers with its artistic patterns.
• Size: Generally its wingspan ranges from 35-45 mm, which is quite large among butterfly species.
• Diet: Preferring to feed on nectar, it’s often seen fluttering around vibrant flowers.
• Reproduction: Female lays single, small pale yellow eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: It typically lives around 2 weeks, just enough to feed, mate, and lay eggs.
• Host Plants: You’ll find their larvae feeding on Buchanania plant species.

It’s indeed a wonderful butterfly to encounter due to its striking color play. This species truly embodies the enchanting beauty of Fiji’s biodiversity.

Tailed Green-banded Blue (Nacaduba cyanea)

Let’s explore a stunning butterfly species – the Tailed Green-banded Blue.

As the name suggests, significant characteristics include its beautiful green bands and small tails on the hind-wing.

• Habitat: It mainly inhabits tropical rain forests in Fiji and southern Pacific islands.
• Appearance: Each wing boasts shimmering green stripes. The forewings are expansive, while the hindwings end in delicate wispy tails.
• Size: This butterfly species commonly reaches a wingspan of around 3.5 cm.
• Diet: Nectar is the primary food source, but at their caterpillar stage, they also feed on the leaves of several plants.
• Reproduction: Their reproduction process involves laying eggs on the underside of leaves, which then become lava.
• Lifespan: It’s difficult to specify due to varying conditions, but they generally live for several weeks.
• Host Plants: This butterfly species is particularly fond of Mistletoe (Loranthus). It lays its eggs on these plants, turning them into a food source for the larvae once hatched.

Dwarf Crow (Euploea tulliolus)

Meet the intriguing Dwarf Crow, one of many butterfly species found on glorious Fiji Island.

Let’s dive in to learn more!

• Habitat: You’ll discover Dwarf Crows in various environments, favored are the coastal areas and lowland rainforests.
• Appearance: They boast dark brown, almost black wings with small white spots. Quite the distinctive look!
• Size: As their name suggests, Dwarf Crows are smaller in size. Adult wingspans can reach up to 7cm, leaving an dainty impression.
• Diet: Like most butterflies, these creatures feed on nectar from various flowers. They have a sweet palate.
• Reproduction: Quite interestingly, females lay eggs on the bottom of host leaves. Ensuring safe egg deposit.
• Lifespan: While short-lived, Dwarf Crows can survive for about one month. An eventful life, indeed!
• Host Plants: The larvae are found on host plants, such as Ficus species, and feed on them.

Take a moment to imagine observing these unique butterflies in their natural habitat. Aren’t butterflies fascinating?

Cruiser (Vindula dejone)

The Cruiser (Vindula dejone) is a striking member of the butterfly population in Fiji, exhibiting an entrancing presence.

Its unique appeal lies in its vibrant color and the intricate designs gracing its wing surface.

• Habitat: Establishing its domain in forested areas, the Cruiser has a preference for lush green environments.
• Appearance: Majestic with a light brown color, contrasted beautifully with patches of bright orange and a glimpse of green.
• Size: A reasonably large butterfly, the Cruiser sports a wingspan of about 80–90 mm.
• Diet: A butterfly’s diet typically comprises nectar, and the Cruiser tends to favor wildflowers.
• Reproduction: Female cruisers lay eggs on the undersides of leaves. The eggs then develop into caterpillars, growing to become another wonderous Cruiser.
• Lifespan: Like most butterflies, they have a short yet remarkable life, usually spanning a mere two weeks.
• Host Plants: The Cruiser caterpillars lean towards Adenia heterophylla, a type of passionflower.

Learning about the Cruiser’s characteristics, I’m sure you’re captivated by its allure just as the mesmerizing flora of Fiji is.

Shining Oakblue (Arhopala micale)

Let’s discover the ‘Shining Oakblue’, or Arhopala micale, an undeniably charming butterfly species.

Here’s a brief snapshot:

• Habitat: Shining Oakblues are native to Fiji, thriving especially in subtropical rainforests and dense, shady woodland areas.
• Appearance: Displaying striking metallic blue shades on the upper side and earthy brown hues with colorful spots beneath, this species is a visual treat.
• Size: Typically, these butterflies fall within a 25-30 mm wingspan range. Their petite size doesn’t overshadow their extraordinary beauty.
• Diet: Mainly nectar feeders, they’re drawn towards the efflorescence of shrubs, tall trees and often creepers.
• Reproduction: Like most butterflies, females lay eggs singly on the host plants, where caterpillars develop.
• Lifespan: Although their lifespan varies, generally it is around 2 to 4 weeks, characteristic for many butterflies.
• Host Plants: Favored host plants include mango, finger cherry and other subtropical trees where their larvae thrive.

With the Shining Oakblue, you’ve now been introduced to another remarkable butterfly from Fiji’s fascinating butterflies.

Green Spotted Triangle (Graphium agamemnon)

The Green Spotted Triangle, also known as the Tailed Jay, is a beautiful and exquisite butterfly species found in Fiji.

• Habitat: The Green Spotted Triangle is a forest-dwelling butterfly and flourishes in rainforest habitats.
• Appearance: This butterfly sports a vibrant green and black color, with a white band extending diagonally across its wings. It also features a distinctive tail at the back end of its wings.
• Size: This species tends to have a large wingspan relative to its body, measuring between 8 to 10 cm.
• Diet: In its caterpillar stage, the diet primarily constitutes of leaves from the Annonaceae family. After metamorphosis, it feeds on nectar from various flowers.
• Reproduction: The female Green Spotted Triangle lays single eggs on leaves of its host plants.
• Lifespan: These butterflies tend to live anywhere between 4 to 7 weeks, with females often outliving males.
• Host Plants: The primary host plants of this species are trees from the Annonaceae family.

Isn’t it fascinating to discover such colorful creatures on Fiji?

Lemon Migrant (Catopsilia pomona)

The Lemon Migrant, an interesting butterfly species, has a unique presence on Fiji Island. Fiji’s diverse ecosystem makes a cozy home for this captivating creature.

• Habitat: They typically inhabit gardens, forests, and parks.
• Appearance: This species sports a vibrant lemon-yellow, greenish color, hence its name.
• Size: Normally, they have a wingspan varying from 60 to 80 mm.
• Diet: Adult Lemon Migrants primarily feed on nectar from pretty flowers.
• Reproduction: After mating, females lay their eggs on host plants.
• Lifespan: Average lifespan is two weeks, while some may survive up to a month.
• Host Plants: Cassia species, particularly Siamea and Auriculata, are preferred host plants.

So, when you are exploring Fiji, look out for the bright, fluttering Lemon Migrants. They are a sight worth capturing!

White Banded Plane (Phaedyma shepherdi)

Imagine stumbling upon the White Banded Plane on your next Fiji trek. Phaedyma Shepherdi, this one’s got a charm of its own.

Let’s dig a bit deeper to know more about it:

• Habitat: Mainly found fluttering around Fiji’s tropical rainforests. You might spot them near flowering nectar plants too.
• Appearance: You would be charmed by its remarkable black and white banding on the upper part of the wings. The underside sees a creamier color with some black lining.
• Size: They are relatively medium-sized butterflies, with a wingspan about 60-70 millimeters.
• Diet: Adult White Banded Planes mostly gorge on flower nectar, while caterpillars fancy the leaves of host plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the leaves of host plants, which the caterpillar uses for food when it hatches.
• Lifespan: Like many butterfly species, it lives approximately 2-4 weeks.
• Host Plants: The larvae feed on Diospyros species, making them a crucial part of their lifecycle.

The White Banded Plane showcases nature’s elegance exemplarily. In Fiji, it’s surely a sight to behold.

Blue-spotted Crow (Euploea midamus)

Meet the gorgeous Blue-spotted Crow, or Euploea midamus. This is a species you’d surely notice, gracefully fluttering around Fiji’s lush landscapes.

Let’s unveil more about this magnificent species.

• Habitat: It primarily dwells in dense, tropical and subtropical forests. Can be seen in both lowlands and uplands.
• Appearance: Known for its dark brown colored wings adorned with stunning blue spots. It’s those spots that gain them their name.
• Size: Average size ranges from 70 to 85 mm, making them quite conspicuous.
• Diet: They opt for sweet nectar of various flowers, rotting fruit, and tree sap.
• Reproduction: Females lay pale green colored eggs on the stems of host plants.
• Lifespan: An average lifespan is around 150 to 180 days in the wild.
• Host Plants: Host plants include all kinds of wild figs, which provide the perfect nursery for their larvae.

So, when you visit Fiji, keep your eyes peeled for this stunning butterfly, the Blue-spotted Crow.

Pale Ciliate Blue (Anthene lycaenoides)

The Pale Ciliate Blue is a small, yet visually striking faunal entity in Fiji.

• Habitat: This butterfly species prefers forest edges and grasslands.
• Appearance: Named for the delicate pale blue hue of its wings, its edges are fringed with a thin black line. The underparts are pale, with small black spots.
• Size: It’s relatively small, with a wingspan ranging from 20-25mm.
• Diet: Its diet mainly consists of nectar from various flower species. The caterpillars feed on specific host plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay eggs on the host plants. The small caterpillars that emerge feed on the plant’s leaves.
• Lifespan: Like many butterflies, the Pale Ciliate Blue’s lifespan is relatively short, living for only a few weeks in its adult form.
• Host Plants: The caterpillars prefer Cassia species, on which they’ll feed and develop into the next stage.

Graceful and petite, this enthralling butterfly truly enriches Fiji’s biodiversity.

Scarlet Mormon (Papilio rumanzovia)

Fluttering among the vibrant flora of Fiji is the Scarlett Mormon. This species certainly stands out.

• Habitat: Found across Fiji, preferring fragmented forests and lowland habitats.
• Appearance: True to its name, the butterfly exhibits a radiant scarlet red body. The sleek black wings are decorated with numerous white specks.
• Size: These beauties can have a wingspan of up to 12cm, making them quite sizeable compared to other species.
• Diet: Like many other adult butterflies, they sip nectar from a myriad of flowering plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay small, spherical eggs on the leaves of host plants.
• Lifespan: Adults have a relatively short life, lasting about 1 to weeks.
• Host Plants: Citrus plants are especially favored to lay their eggs on.

Through knowing about its characteristics, we see why Scarlet Mormon is an undeniable asset to Fiji’s butterfly portfolio.

Blue Tiger (Tirumala hamata)

Welcome to the world of the Blue Tiger, known scientifically as Tirumala hamata.

So, let’s take a closer look at your new colored friend.

• Habitat: Preferred habitats are forests, gardens, and even urban environments.
• Appearance: This butterfly is a sight to behold. Its wings display eye-catching and intricate patterning in black and blue.
• Size: With a wingspan of approximately 75mm, the Blue Tiger will catch your eye from quite a distance.
• Diet: Indulges in flower nectar, fallen fruits, and rarely, tree sap.
• Reproduction: Females lay spherical, tiny eggs on leaves of host plants, which hatches into beautiful caterpillars.
• Lifespan: They can live up to several weeks, longer in milder climates.
• Host Plants: Mainly feeding on various species of the plant family Apocynaceae.

With all its unique features, the Blue Tiger truly stands as a symbol of Fiji’s rich biodiversity. Watching such a living wonder is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Blood-red Acraea (Acraea petraea)

The Blood-red Acraea is a sight to behold. Part of Fiji’s unique butterfly species, it’s crucial to learn more about its existence on the island.

• Habitat: Being a rainforest species, it thrives in the tropical landscapes of Fiji.
• Appearance: True to its name, this butterfly adorn red wings marked with black spots.
• Size: Their wings span around 60-70mm, a medium size compared to other Fiji butterflies.
• Diet: The adults feed on nectar from various native plants.
• Reproduction: Like many butterfly species, the female lays eggs on choice host plants.
• Lifespan: Typically, their average lifespan ranges from 2-3 weeks.
• Host Plants: Their caterpillars feed on different species of the Passifloraceae family.

Getting to know this crimson-winged beauty adds to the understanding of Fiji’s rich biodiversity.

Dotted Border (Mylothris agathina)

The Dotted Border, scientifically known as Mylothris agathina, is an enchanting butterfly species found on Fiji Island.

Here are some quick facts about this colorful friend:

• Habitat: Predominantly found in forested areas and the outskirts of plantations.
• Appearance: Characteristic for their pale yellow color, adorned with a series of small black dots along the outer margins of their wings that resemble a border.
• Size: Medium-sized with a wingspan that extends up to 5 cm.
• Diet: Adult Dotted Borders mainly feed on nectar from a range of flowering plants.
• Reproduction: Females lay tiny, spherical eggs on the host plants.
• Lifespan: Typical lifespan ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks in the adult stage.
• Host Plants: Larvae feed on a variety of plant species, including the Cabbage Tree.

Remember, Dotted Border is just one facet of Fiji’s wealth of butterfly species.

Garden Commodore (Precis octavia sesamus)

You’ll find the Garden Commodore to be a delightful spectacle.  This butterfly species is known as Precis octavia sesamus, and it’s a sight for sore eyes on Fiji Island.

• Habitat: Garden Commodores relish sunny open spaces. They’re often found flitting about in gardens and forest edges.
• Appearance: Having a magnificent blue-black body, with eye-catching blue patterns on its upper wings and orange on its lower wings, it truly stands out.
• Size: The wing span ranges from about 55-60mm, classifying it as a medium-sized butterfly.
• Diet: Typically feeding on flower nectar, you might just find these beauties lingering near your blooms.
• Reproduction: They lay pale-green eggs, often on the underside of host plant leaves to stay hidden from predators.
• Lifespan: From egg to elderly butterfly, the typical lifespan can reach up to 150 days.
• Host Plants: Plants like the plantain family serve as host plants, supplying adequate nourishment for caterpillars.

Next time you’re exploring Fiji, try to spot one of these vibrant flutterers. Keep an eye out for the blue and orange hues. Keep in mind their favorite habitats and you’ll stand a fair chance!

Conclusion

Exploring the different butterfly species on Fiji Island is truly a unique and mesmerizing experience.

With their dazzling beauty and fascinating characteristics, each species embodies nature’s masterpiece. What are your thoughts?

Don’t hesitate to comment and share your favorite butterfly species in the conversation below.