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(Junonia ornithya
Butterfly populations are a very good indicator of the health of an area's ecosystem !!
Also known as the Eyed Pansy, and the Blue Argus.
   Junonia ornithya exhibits a remarkable adaptation to its environment, making it a subject of great interest for both enthusiasts and researchers.
   Predominantly celebrated in India, they command attention with their territorial nature and are distinguished by their 26 local subspecies.
   Known for their affinity for sunlight, Blue Pansies are often observed basking on bare ground, embracing the warmth and light with open wings.
   Males boast black forewings edged in white and brown, with thin black lines converging towards the wingtips and a notable orange-yellow eyespot. The hind wings shimmer in bright cyan blue, framed by white borders and accented with orange eye marks.   
   Females, however, display a dominance of brown with subtle dirty blue patches, particularly at the base of the hind wings. When the wings are closed, both genders present a grayish-brown color with orange-brown markings, maintaining the characteristic eye-spots.
   The caterpillar stage of the Blue Pansy Butterfly is striking, with their bodies covered in perpendicular spines and radial hairs.
   Predominantly dark brown or black, the larva features a unique orange patch on its bifurcated head, complemented by two spines and small spine-like structures near the eyes, portraying nature’s detailed craftsmanship.

The adult phase of the Blue Pansy Butterfly reveals distinct sexual dimorphism. Males and females showcase variations in their wing patterns and colors, marking the differences between the sexes.

   The Blue Pansy has been declared the state butterfly of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir in India.

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Diet: adults primarily feeds on the nectar of flowers.
Wingspan: ranges between about 5 – 7 cm / 2 - 2.75".

Family: Nymphalidae

Blue Pansy caterpillars
Blue Pansy chrysalis
The single biggest threat to butterfly survival is habitat destruction!!
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