Though the sexes look similar in overall
markings, the blue iridescence on the upper surface of the male
is unmistakable. The upper side of both wings have wide
submarginal bands that are black or nearly so in the male, but
brown in the female. There is well defined central white bands
on both wings that align with each other to resemble a llama's
head and neck.
Similar species
The Angled Pierrot - The black markings on the undersides are
fewer though much broader, particularly on the forewing. There
are no spots on the submarginal band on the under side of the
hind wings; only a fine black lunular line. The upper sides have
no trace of blue for either sex and the shape of the central
white area resembles a sea horse.
This is a butterfly of the southern part of the island and it
ascends the hills to 5000 feet. Unlike the Common Pierrot, it is
a forest loving species. It is somewhat uncommon but is found
all year round, especially around 1000 to 2000 feet elevation.
It prefers edges of forests, sunlit areas of foot paths through
forests, and stream beds.
This is an active little butterfly that flies a great deal but
frequently settles to inspect sources of food; it is especially
partial to bird droppings. The males mud-sip along gravel roads
during hot weather. At other times, they take up a position on a
twig or leaf overhanging a jungle path and wait for females to
fly by or simply bask in the sun with wings partly open. |
