Why in news?
Conservationists in Karnataka marked a decade since the Southern birdwing (Troides minos) was declared the state butterfly. Awareness campaigns were organised to promote butterfly conservation and habitat protection in the Western Ghats.
Background
The Southern birdwing is a large swallowtail butterfly endemic to South India. With a wingspan of about 140 to 190 millimetres, it is one of the largest butterflies in India, second only to the Golden Birdwing (Troides aeacus). The species is abundant in the Western Ghats and adjoining regions. In 2017 Karnataka adopted it as the state butterfly to raise awareness about butterfly diversity.
Identification
- Wings: Males have glossy black forewings with pale veins and golden yellow hindwings bordered by a broad black band. Females are larger with duller colours and white streaks. Unlike most other Indian swallowtails, its hindwings have no tail; its large size and broad golden-yellow hindwings distinguish it from other large butterflies.
- Behaviour: It is active mostly in the morning. The butterfly has a slow, graceful flight and often soars above the canopy. Adults feed on nectar from flowers like lantana and thunbergia.
- Habitat: Found mainly in evergreen forests, forest edges and home gardens of the Western Ghats. Larvae feed on pipevine plants (Aristolochia species).
- Status: The IUCN Red List categorises the species as Least Concern. However, butterfly collectors and habitat degradation pose threats in some areas.
Conclusion
The Southern birdwing is a flagship species for butterfly conservation in Karnataka. Protecting its habitat will also preserve the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats. Public participation and eco‑friendly gardens can aid conservation of this impressive insect.