Hamadryas velutina (Velutina Cracker)

Description

Coloration: Dark brown with large, striking white and red patches across the wings.
Body Structure: Medium to large butterflies with distinctively angular wings and a wingspan of around 8-10 cm.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males are slightly smaller with more vivid red markings compared to females.
Flight Patterns: Slow, fluttering flight, often hovering near flowering plants.
Feeding Habits: Nectarivorous, feeding on various flowering plants in its native range.
Reproductive Behavior: Females lay eggs on host plants, where larvae feed before pupating.
Geographical Range: Found across Southeast Asia and the Philippines.
Preferred Habitats: Tropical rainforests and forest clearings.
Threats: Habitat destruction and illegal trapping.
Conservation Efforts: Efforts focus on conserving natural habitats and regulating the butterfly trade.