Appearance: The White Peacock Butterfly has a wingspan ranging from 45 to 55 mm. It features predominantly white wings with distinctive black and orange markings. The undersides of the wings are pale with subtle patterns.
Sexual Dimorphism: Both males and females exhibit similar coloration and markings, although males typically have slightly brighter colors.
Known Range:
The White Peacock Butterfly is native to the Americas, specifically found in regions from the southern United States through Central America, and extending into parts of South America.
It inhabits various habitats including open woodlands, gardens, parks, and coastal areas.
Diet:
Adults: Feed primarily on nectar from a wide range of flowering plants such as Lantana, Buddleia, and Verbena.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars feed on the leaves of various host plants including plants from the families Acanthaceae and Malvaceae.
Breeding and Lifecycle:
Mating: Males actively seek females for mating, engaging in courtship behaviors such as aerial pursuits and releasing pheromones.
Egg Laying: Females lay eggs singly or in small clusters on the undersides of host plant leaves.
Caterpillar Stage: The caterpillars hatch from the eggs and undergo several instars before reaching maturity. They feed voraciously on host plant leaves, growing rapidly.
Pupal Stage: Once the caterpillar reaches maturity, it forms a pupa (chrysalis) attached to a substrate such as a leaf or stem. Inside the pupa, the caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis, transforming into an adult butterfly.
Adult Stage: Upon emergence from the pupa, the adult butterfly allows its wings to expand and dry before taking flight. It then resumes feeding and mating activities.
Additional Notes:
The White Peacock Butterfly is known for its graceful flight and is a common sight in butterfly gardens and natural habitats throughout its range.
It is often attracted to gardens and urban areas, making it a popular subject for butterfly enthusiasts and photographers.
