Cirrochroa imperatrix

[Yorky]

From Biak

[daveuk]

Lovely species & specimens. Another one that was unavailable for a very long time.

[Yorky]

There was a few available but they seem to have disappeared again.

[wollastoni]

You have to see a picture with flash to understand the true beauty of this species. One of the most beautiful species I have seen flying in my life.
Sending blue flashes like a little Morpho would do.



Their scales have an impressive way of reflecting lights.

[daveuk]

Amazing butterfly. Wonderful that you have seen it in the wild.

[wollastoni]

During a 4-day collecting trip on Biak (after mainland Papua), our group of 5 entomologists found 2 specimens of Cirrochroa imperatrix. So it is not a common species there (unlike many Cirrochroa species in SE Asia which are very common).

I was attracted by some blue flashes inside a bush. When I approach, the specimen got afraid and flew away sending blue flashes everywhere. I was lucky to catch him few minutes after.

Those who have seen forest Morpho (like Morpho helenor) in South America can imagine how impressive these blue flashes in a dark forest can be.

[daveuk]

Did not see any Morphos in southern Brazil when I was there sadly but I did see P ulysses joesa in tropical North Australia so am familiar with the blue flashes!!
Great that you actually collected your specimen. Congrats !!

[Yorky]

My other specimen

[daveuk]

Lovely Dunc. I did manage to get a pair during that very narrow window when they were available. Truly stunning butterflies.