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
