Glasswing Butterlfy

Glasswing Butterfly
Glasswing Butterfly – 20th March, 2011.

These dainty butterflies are about half the size of the Dainty or Dingy Swallowtail. The upper wing is almost transparent, with only the back markings and a light dusting of white.

They have constantly returned to the buddleia to feed during the last two days, and may have been visiting it far longer.

This was the first of their species I have seen outside books and web sites. Another exciting discovery, at least for me.

Postscript: later in the season I saw a few Glasswing Butterflies frequenting the banana passionfruit. Apparently they can use this as a larvae food plant. Hopefully that means more Glasswings in the future!

 

Glasswing Butterfly on buddleia flowers
Glasswing Butterfly on buddleia flowers. The top wing is almost transparent.
Glasswing Butterflies on buddleia flowers
Glasswing Butterflies on buddleia flowers. These two travelled together.
Glasswing Butterfly on buddleia flowers
Glasswing Butterfly on buddleia flowers, inside wings.
Glasswing Butterfly on buddleia flowers
Glasswing Butterfly on buddleia flowers, outside wings.