The Lime Butterfly

[Vijay Rajan]

The Common Lime (Papilio demoleus) is a common and widespread Swallowtail butterfly. It gets its common name from its host plants, which are usually citrus species such as the cultivated lime.

The widespread range of Papilio demoleus indicates the butterfly's tolerance and adaptation to diverse habitats. It is to be found in savannahs, fallow lands, gardens, evergreen and semi-evergreen forests and shows a preference for stream and riverbeds. In India it is mostly found in the plains but can be found on the hills of peninsular India and up to 7000 feet in the Himalayas. It is common in urban gardens and may also be encountered in wooded country. This butterfly is also a very successful invader, its spread appearing to be due to its strong flight, increase in urbanisation and agricultural land use that opens up new areas for dispersal, and greater availability of foodplants.

Canon 550 D, Sigma 70 - 300 mm APO DG Macro.

AE, f/7.1, 1/400, ISO 320, handheld, full frame, minimal PP. Beg your pardon for the border (the RAW file got deleted & hence couldn't reprocess). Many thanks for viewing C & C.

[Sabyasachi Patra]

Interesting butterfly. I think a little bit wider would have been even better. I was about to point out the border when I saw your text.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi

[Mrudul Godbole]

Nice details and good colours. I would have liked some more space all around. Thanks for sharing the detailed information.