Butterflies of the Seychelles islands

The Seychelles Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, are a beautiful archipelago known for their white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. But the islands are also home to a unique and diverse range of wildlife, including a variety of butterfly species. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most interesting butterflies of the Seychelles Islands.

1. Kricogonia lyside

Kricogonia lyside, also known as the Seychelles copper, is a stunning butterfly with bright orange and black wings. This butterfly is found only in the Seychelles Islands and is considered a national symbol. The Seychelles copper is a protected species and is only found in the forests on the islands of Mahe, Praslin, and Silhouette.

1. Euploea sylvester

Euploea sylvester, also known as the Red Lacewing, is a beautiful butterfly with black and red wings. This butterfly is found throughout the Seychelles Islands, and is often seen flying near the coast. The Red Lacewing is an important pollinator for many plant species, and can often be found feeding on nectar in gardens and fields.

1. Junonia oenone

Junonia oenone, also known as the Blue Pansy, is a small butterfly with distinctive blue and brown markings on its wings. This butterfly is found throughout the Seychelles Islands and is often seen flying in gardens and fields. The Blue Pansy is a fast and agile flier, and can cover long distances, making it an important pollinator for many plant species.

1. Salamis parhassus

Salamis parhassus, also known as the Common Diadem, is a large and impressive butterfly that is found throughout the Seychelles Islands. This butterfly has striking orange and black markings on its wings, with a distinctive white band on its forewings. The Common Diadem is a strong flier and can cover long distances, making it an important pollinator for many plant species.

1. Colotis evagore

Colotis evagore, also known as the African Migrant, is a medium-sized butterfly that is found throughout the Seychelles Islands. This butterfly has bright orange and black wings, and is often seen flying in gardens and fields. The African Migrant is a fast and agile flier, and can cover long distances, making it an important pollinator for many plant species.

In conclusion, the butterflies of the Seychelles Islands are a fascinating and diverse group of insects that play an important role in the ecosystem. Whether you are an entomologist or just someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the butterflies of the Seychelles Islands offer a captivating subject to explore. From the small and delicate Blue Pansy to the large and impressive Seychelles copper, there is something for everyone to admire and appreciate. You can learn more about the diversity and conservation importance of these graceful insects in our field guide by James Lawrence (click the cover above to go to the product page for more info and to order your copy).