Melanitis leda

The Melanitis leda, commonly known as the evening brown butterfly, is a captivating insect often seen fluttering about at dusk. Renowned for its erratic flight, this butterfly inhabits regions across Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of Australia.

One of the most intriguing characteristics of the evening brown butterfly is its seasonal appearance change. During the wet season, it displays brown wings adorned with large black spots near the tips of the forewings. The hindwings feature dark eye-like spots, each centering a white dot encircled by orange rings. The undersides of the wings are lighter, embellished with dark brown streaks and bands, and also showcase eye spots. In the dry season, though the color palette remains similar, the patterns and prominence of these eye spots can vary.

Ecologically, these butterflies exhibit a notable degree of assertiveness. They are territorial and will chase away intruders, even reacting to disturbances such as pebbles being tossed nearby. Their caterpillars feed on a variety of grasses, including rice, bamboo, and millet. As adults, they primarily feed on nectar but are also attracted to rotting fruit on occasion.