The Purple Sapphire butterfly (Heliophorus epicles), primarily found in Asia, has been recorded in regions such as the Himalayas, Myanmar, and southern Yunnan. In Australia, the subspecies Heliophorus epicles latilimbata has been noted, though sightings in Melbourne are rare and unusual, as this species typically inhabits tropical and subtropical forests at elevations between 600 to 2,100 meters. The butterfly's wings are dark brown with blue and red markings, with males showcasing blue patches on the forewings and females having orange-red zigzag lines on their hindwings. While Heliophorus epicles is not native to Melbourne, any confirmed sightings in the area would be of significant interest to entomologists.
Pentax K20D
A 200mm f4 Macro
This is linking Saturday Critter
Such a beautiful butterfly.
ReplyDeleteCamouflage
DeleteIt is gorgeous. I love butterflies :-D
ReplyDeleteThe area is very dark
DeleteYou have wonderful eyes for spotting beauty.
ReplyDeleteThank you. It is a hobby
DeleteI am unfamiliar with this species of butterfly. Lovely photo, thank you so much for sharing, as well as the information you are providing.
ReplyDeleteIt is not a common find here
DeleteIt is gorgeous! And look how well he blends in with his surroundings.
ReplyDeleteIt definitely blends in
DeleteP.S. It's wonderful how you notice the little things that many do not.
ReplyDeleteI believe that in recent years with climate change a lot has changed!
ReplyDeleteDespite all this, the color scheme seems very fitting with the environment!!
Melbourne is becoming very warm
DeleteIt blends right in to its surroundings.
ReplyDeleteIt's very well camouflaged, and not much sign of purple.
ReplyDelete...it's beautiful.
ReplyDeleteWell camouflaged!
ReplyDeleteI had to look twice, beautiful.
ReplyDeleteÚltimamente se ven especialmente insectos en lugares fuera de su lugar natural y por lo que nos comentas esta mariposa puede ser una muestra. Se la hubiese localizado mejor con alas desplegadas, una gran foto.
ReplyDeleteSaludos.
Such fragile creatures, easily overlooked.
ReplyDeleteYes--- One has to look for it, but the reward is great!
ReplyDeleteBien localizada y enfocada la mariposa para estar tan mimetizada en su entorno.
ReplyDeleteUn abrazo.
Beautiful butterfly, a great find. Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Take care, have a wonderful weekend. PS, thank you for leaving me a comment.
ReplyDeleteGreat beauty.
ReplyDeleteIt blends into the background quite well.
ReplyDeleteWhat an incredible sighting. The Purple Sapphire butterfly is a beautiful and rare visitor, especially in Melbourne. Its striking colors and delicate patterns make it a true gem of the insect world. It’s always fascinating when species outside their usual range make an appearance, highlighting the unexpected wonders of nature. Thanks for sharing this special moment.
ReplyDeletemelodyjacob.com
Well spotted.
ReplyDeleteIt is very well camouflaged.
All the best Jan
It is so pretty!
ReplyDelete