The peacock pansy, or Junonia almana, is a type of nymphalid butterfly that can be found in South Asia and Cambodia. The patterns on the underside of the wings are the main difference between the two forms. IUCN’s Red List categorizes it as Least Concern.
Amazing Facts
- Although the color, shape, and pattern of adult males and females are relatively identical, this butterfly actually exhibits a significant lot of seasonal variation. The wet season and dry season variations differ so greatly from one another that it was first thought that they were two different species.
Appearance
“Cylindrical. Head is quite hairy and black. Body pale ochreous-brown with a dorsal, subdorsal, and lateral blackish line, as well as a row of small-ringed spots below the latter; a transverse reddish stripe on the second segment anteriorly; a transverse blackish stripe on the second, third, and fourth segments posteriorly; and armed with a dorsal, subdorsal, and two lateral rows of short, fine-branched spine”
Diet
The adults will eat nectar from many different kinds of flowers, but they seem to particularly like lantana.
Predators
Birds, reptiles, spiders, and other insects are peacock and pansy butterfly predators. The noticeable eye markings on this butterfly’s wings are where it gets its name. To frighten predators, these ‘eyes’ can be abruptly shown by opening its wings.
Habitat
The Peacock Pansy is frequently seen in gardens, open countryside, regions near rice fields, and on the sides of roads.
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