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Papilio polytes — The Common Mormon on a floral visit

20/05/2023 12:16

Papilio polytes — The Common Mormon on a floral visit
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Perched lightly on a cluster of white valerian flowers, this Papilio polytes, also known as the Common Mormon, displays all its delicate elegance. Its silky black wings are enhanced with ivory or red patterns, depending on the variations of its sex or mimetic form—for this species is a master in the art of evolutionary camouflage.


Here, it is likely a male, recognizable by its plain dark wings edged with subtle pale borders. It forages intently, probing each valerian flower with its long, spiral proboscis. Its wingbeats create a barely perceptible shiver in the air, reminding us that this delicate scene lasts only a moment.


Native to Southeast Asia, this butterfly is familiar with tropical gardens and sunny clearings, but it seems equally at home in lush greenhouses. Its nervous but graceful flight contrasts with the serenity of the static flowers, offering a scene as peaceful as it is ephemeral.

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